There is no systematic approach to meeting the requirements of the item; information provided is anecdotal. There is little or no evidence of a systematic method. Improvement orientation is unclear; enhancements occur mainly as reactions to problems. No clear company alignment exists; individual areas or work units operate independently.

There is evidence of an initial systematic approach to the basic requirements of the item. The approach is in its early stage of application across most areas or work units,limiting progress in achieving the basic requirements. There are early signs of a shift from reactive problem-solving to a general orientation towards improvement. The approach shows partial alignment across areas or work units,largely through joint problem-solving.

There is an effective, systematic approach that is responsive to the basic requirements of the item. The approach is applied, though some areas or work units remain at early stages of adoption. There is a beginning of systematic evaluation and improvement of core processes. The approach shows early alignment with company requirements, identified in response to the Company Profile and related process items.

There is an effective, systematic approach that is responsive to the overall requirements of the item. The approach is well deployed, though its application may vary across some areas or work units. Fact-based evaluation and process improvement are in place, supported by some company learning, including innovation, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of key processes. The approach is aligned with the overall company requirements, as identified in response to the Company Profile and related process items.

There is an effective, systematic approach that is responsive to multiple requirements of the item. The approach is broadly and consistently applied, with no significant gaps. Fact-based evaluation, systematic improvement, and company learning, including innovation, are used as key management tools. There is clear evidence of refinement based on analysis and company-wide knowledge sharing. The approach is integrated with both the current and future requirements of the company,as identified in response to the Company Profile and related process items.

There is a fully effective, systematic approach that is comprehensively responsive to multiple requirements of the item. The approach is consistently and comprehensively applied with no significant weaknesses or gaps across any areas or work units.Fact-based evaluation, systematic improvement, and company learning through innovation are core company tools. Refinement and innovation,supported by analysis and knowledge sharing, are evident throughout the company. The approach is fully integrated with both the current and future requirements of the company,as identified in response to the Company Profile and related process items.