
THE BALDRIGE CRITERIA
19
What Does This Mean?
This item asks how clearly the senior executives
have dened and communicated the mission of
the organization, why it exists, its future direc-
tion, and the values for which it stands. Actions
speak louder than words, so emphasis should
be on how the behavior and decisions made by
executives are in alignment with the mission,
vision, and values. This item also asks about
how the executives ensure honesty and ethical
behavior using a system of governance. This
system should protect the needs and interests
of stockholders and other stakeholders. Finally,
the item asks how the leaders review the per-