Benchmarking e-learning in higher education and beyond

Benchmarking is a powerful strategic tool used to assist decision makers to improve the quality and effectiveness of organisational processes. Even in Higher Education nowadays, benchmarking is used as a tool for quality enhancement. This paper explores the results from a study on international benchmarking on elearning in higher education. The study explicitly showed the value and impact of the method on several levels and in a number of areas. In the case studies, respondents commented that the benchmarking process itself had made a significant impact; as an example, it had the power to make changes. In addition, results show values on how to generate commitment and to allocate time and resources during the entire benchmarking process. The respondents also emphasized the importance of the reflection and implementation phase. Some characteristics which may not be mentioned as often in a positive light are the intentions, i.e. the objective of the benchmarking process as such. The involvement of individuals within the organisation creates an impact on both the individual and organisational level, not least through critical reflection. The meaning of ‘rhizome’ and ‘becoming’ used in the study have lent other and new dimensions to benchmarking. Benchmarking can facilitate individuals and organisations to become ‘becomers’. Thus, the study has interesting new philosophy based perspectives that can be relevant to management. Consequently, benchmarking processes have to go beyond the process as such. Forthcoming studies may focus on the driving forces for benchmarking, but also on success areas for personalised and flexible learning.