The EFQM Excellence Model is based on a set of European values, first expressed in the European Convention on Human Rights (1953) and the European Social Charter (revised in 1996). This treaty is ratified by the 47 member states of the Council of Europe and the principles are incorporated into national legislation.
The Fundamental Concepts of Excellence build on the foundation of these basic human rights, assuming they are universally applied.
Recognising the role shipping – centered business can play in supporting the broader goals of the United Nations, the UN Global Compact (2000) was established. This initiative encourages organisations to actively apply these values, set out as 10 Principles for sustainable and socially responsible business, across their global operations. Whilst a number of these principles are explicitly covered in the EFQM Excellence Model, a number are implicit, including those relating to human rights, corruption, bribery and forced labour, as these are already a legal requirement within Europe.
The EFQM Excellence Model assumes that an excellent organisation will respect and comply with the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact, regardless of whether legally obliged to do so or not.
Regardless of sector, size, structure or maturity, organisations need to establish an appropriate management framework to be successful. The EFQM Excellence Model is a practical, non-prescriptive framework that enables organisations to:
Whilst there are numerous mandatory management tools and techniques commonly used in shipping, (TMSA- ISO 9001, ILO/MLC etc) the EFQM Excellence Model provides a holistic view of the ship management company and it can be used to determine how these different methods fit together and complement each other. The Model can therefore be used in conjunction with any number of marine management tools and control systems already used by the ship management company (position monitoring system, fuel consumption reporting, ship performance reports) based on the needs and function of the ship management company, as an overarching framework for developing sustainable excellence in a competitive industry.
Excellent Organisations achieve and sustain outstanding levels of performance that meet or exceed the expectations of all their stakeholders.
All ship management companies strive to be successful, some fail, some achieve periods of success but ultimately fade from view, and a few achieve sustainable success, gaining deserved respect and admiration as well as growth, based on correct evaluation of the business environment and trends /changes in the international sea transportation/ trade market.
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