The Forward Award program provides a system for measuring and recognizing four levels of progress and growth toward performance excellence. There are no limits to the number of organizations that may receive recognition at any level. To achieve the highest level of recognition — the Forward Award of Excellence — an organization must be able to show outstanding achievement in quality performance relative to the Forward Award Criteria.
The four recognition levels represent developmental steps to performance excellence.
Commitment
This is the beginning level for organizations starting to adopt and implement continuous improvement practices and principles. Organizations that are starting on their quality journey will find Forward Award program participation and education to be very beneficial as a first learning step. Applicants at this initial level may have used a self-assessment to define a baseline for how the organization measures up on the Award scoring scale. Recipients at this level receive Commitment recognition.
Proficiency
This is an intermediate level for organizations that are starting to effectively use continuous improvement principles and practices. Recognition at this level is provided to organizations that demonstrate, through their commitment and implementation of quality and performance management, progress in constructing sound and noteworthy processes. These organizations show a solid approach to applying the Criteria of the Forward Award process at the system-level, and to implementing plans and procedures. Their accomplishments are confirmed by evidence of developing and improving performance trends. Recipients at this level receive Proficiency recognition.
Mastery
This is an advanced level for organizations that show through their skillful practice of performance management principles, significant progress in expanding their capabilities through improved processes of all kinds. Their achievements are demonstrated by results, are clearly linked to quality and performance management systems, and are directly attributable to a systemic, well-deployed approach. Recipients may receive, at their option, interactive personal feedback at their location and Mastery recognition.
Excellence
The highest level of achievement, the Forward Award for Excellence, is presented to organizations that demonstrate excellence through their quality practices and achievements. Recognition at this level is provided to organizations that are outstanding examples of quality enterprises in Wisconsin, and which can serve as role models for others. Their management excellence with superior results is clearly evident. They continue to learn and build upon outstanding business results and excellent performance management systems. Organizations achieving this level receive a site visit to verify and clarify information assessed during the application review. At the site visit, applicants may be asked to provide additional information/data. The site visit does not imply receipt of the Forward Award of Excellence. Organizations confirmed as achieving at this level receive the Forward Award for Excellence.
