Benchmarking in supply chain management: a process to find a better way, rather than an attempt to reinvent the proverbial wheel

Abstract

In searching for ''best practices'' in Supply Chain Management, the Asian Benchmarking Clearinghouse (ABC) of Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), jointly with Hong Kong Article Numbering Association (HKANA), conducted a consortium benchmarking study. Through systematic data collection and site visit processes, the consortium group gained critical insights into key issues, challenges and solutions. More importantly, the participated companies were able to identify their positions in the marketplace that were essential for goal setting and attaining superior performance. The Hong Kong Productivity Council shares a same benchmarking methodology with its global alliance partner, American Productivity and Quality Center (APQC). The approach was developed in 1993 and has been serving as one of the premier methods for successful benchmarking in the world.