248 THE ROI OF HUMAN CAPITAL
• Is it worth the effort, or should we focus resources else-
where?
Benchmarking is a tool that can help you find and generate
value in almost any function—so long as you pay attention
to the context.
Summary
Companies are working hard at improving their competi-
tiveness in world markets. This is bringing about great
changes within companies. Every day we read about and
experience the effects of this effort. Companies are employ-
ing a variety of processes in search of more efficient and
effective operations. Restructuring, outsourcing, employee
engagement, employing contingent workers, merging and
acquiring, and benchmarking best practices are the popular
tactics. Each offers a different path from the present to the
future.