Best practices are proven methods for achieving specific results in specific circumstances. They save time and money and facilitate consistent results. They can be used in any type of business and are continuously improved. They are important as a stepping stone to finding better ways to do tasks and establishing new best practices.
“Best practice” is a phrase used to identify a documented way of achieving specific results in specific circumstances effectively. It is a concept based on lessons learned by one group that are passed on to other groups. In this way an individual or organization can focus on executing the task rather than first determining how best to do the task. This can save time and money. Furthermore, the use of best practices can facilitate a more consistent set of results.
The wheels of progress would turn much slower if every time an organization began an activity it had never done before, it had to use a trial and error method to determine the most efficient way to perform the activity. However, by relying on the trial and error of other people and/or organizations who have evolved a method that has proven to be the most efficient, they can start business using a proven method. The proven method, known as a “best practice,” can then be modified, if necessary, to meet the specific needs of your organization. This is the essence of best practices.
For a method or idea to be considered a best practice, it must have certain characteristics including the ability and desire to be duplicated by others. Best practices can be used in any type of business. Some examples of areas where they are used include new software development, construction, transportation, business management, and government. They can be used either in the actual politics, management or production aspect of a business or organization. Best practices can be documented in the form of manuals, lists, reports, software, documents or educational materials.
Best practices are not static and are continuously improved. This is especially important now in a time of rapid technological evolution. A method or technique for achieving success that is accepted today as the best in the industry will most likely be replaced tomorrow due to advances in technology. If best practices are never challenged or improved, progress would stop. Consequently, in addition to their importance in providing a model for success in performing a specific task, they are also important as a stepping stone to finding better ways to do the task and thus establishing new best practices.
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