When we began to design benchmarking studies for the refining industry in the early 1980s, we wanted a process that was more than just a collection of data that could be manipulated to make the numbers fit the message. As a result, Solomon Associates designed Comparative Performance Analysis (CPA) that is more robust than anything else referred to as “benchmarking” today.

As the line graph illustrates, our CPA process has become the gold standard of the refining industry. In 1980, our study included only ten companies; by 2000 over 350 clients participated.

Based on our success in refining, and coupled with demand for our process from other industries, we designed CPAs for the petrochemical, pipeline, terminal, and power generation industries. Focusing on critical measures, companies identify performance gaps relative to the leaders in their industry, which then serve as the basis for improvement initiatives.

We define the terms of measurement so all contributors to the database supply their performance information with the same frame of reference. After over 20 years of improving our study, we have developed a uniform methodology that:

• Identifies those elements that most affect commercial success
• Employs generic terms for each measurement to assure confidentiality
• Provides detailed definitions to promote consistent response by participants
• Ensures all performance data applies to the same time frame

Consistency and uniformity is the reason CPA is so powerful. Because size, complexity, location, and other factors have been minimized or eliminated from the process completely, participants are able to compare their assets to competitors and to the industry objectively. CPA allows each client to improve performance and increase profits based on a clear understanding of their competitive position.

See also: Client support: Study features

Summaries for CPA programs are available for download -  Click here

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