Use Of The Best Practices Technique In Business And Ways To Maximize Its Usefulness

Abstract

The approach of identifying and learning from the best practices employed in an industry is popular in academic and professional business training. The concept of following the leader (similar to benchmarking) is a trusted tactic, if not a strategy, used in many industries. However, if the correct research method is not used to identify these practices, the outcomes can be ineffective as a result of using inappropriate techniques, or inefficient as result of using techniques that promise success yet result in failure. This paper discusses how best practices may sometimes be erroneously identified and provides guidance on how to avoid the error. The research is based on an experience with the hospice sector of the health care industry.