What is the Execution pillar of the EFQM Model?

Here, we are going to explore the Execution pillar of the EFQM Model, which is where the organisation turns its intentions into actions.

Exploring the Execution pillar

When an organisation is setting plans for the future, it needs to make decisions about how it will achieve those plans and how it will allocate resources. The Execution pillar is split into 3 criteria which cover these activities.

The criteria include:

• developing good relationships with different groups of stakeholders
• providing products and services that meet the expectations of stakeholders
• managing current performance and making sure that the organisation will be successful in the future.

You can see the names of these three criteria on the diagram below.

Click here to see a larger image of the EFQM Model

Let’s look at each of the criteria in a bit more detail.

Engaging stakeholders

Under this criterion, 5 main groups of stakeholders are identified – customers; people; business and governing stakeholders; society; partners and suppliers.

Creating sustainable value

This is the heart of the organisation. It is where activities such as customer research, product design, sales, marketing, operations and logistics take place. All of these activities should be of value to one or more of your stakeholders.

The organisation should also be considering sustainability. Sustainability includes:

• protecting the planet and its resources
• protecting the financial future of the organisation
• making sure that the organisation will have the right skills and resources for the future

Driving performance and transformation

All leaders need to make sure that their organisation is performing well. They also need to be aware of changes that are taking place inside or outside the organisation. They need to make sure that the organisation adapts to changes and continues to work well in the future.

What does your organisation do to create value for its customers?

What does sustainable mean for your organisation?