Critical Linkages in the Baldrige Award Criteria: Research Models and Educational Challenges

In this article, a causal model that describes the key linkages in the Baldrige Award criteria for performance excellence framework is proposed. This model provides significant research opportunities for further theoretical modeling and empirical testing, and a practical means by which practitioners and business educators can acquire in-depth understanding of the criteria. Three key linkages are explicitly addressed: the linkages among business results; linkages between management practices reflected in the award's areas to address and results; and linkages among the six approach/deployment categories. Finally, some issues and challenges facing modern management education in conveying the nature of integrated management systems to today's business students are addressed.