The Shingo Prize is based on a complete assessment of an organization’s culture and how well it drives world-class results. Shingo examiners focus on the degree to which the Shingo Guiding Principles in the Shingo Model™ are evident in the behavior of every employee. The examiners observe behavior and determine the frequency, duration, intensity, and scope of the desired principle-based behavior. They also observe the degree to which leaders focus on principles and culture, and managers focus on aligning systems to drive ideal behaviors at all levels. This focus is unique in the world and is the most rigorous way to determine whether an organization is fundamentally improving for the long-term, or just going through the motions of another flavor-of-the-month initiative.

The most important step in using the Shingo Model and assessment methodology in an organization is to fully understand the Shingo Model. At first glance, the Shingo Model and Shingo Guiding Principles seem simple enough; however, deeper study will reveal insights of operational excellence that will revolutionize the way organizations view themselves, their transformation efforts, and current cultural reality. To this end, we highly recommend any organization using the Shingo Model or attempting to challenge for an award attend our workshops. Most organizations have an assessment process by which they rate or rank pieces of the organization; this can differ significantly from how a Shingo assessment may score them due to the fact that the criteria for each are usually very different.

Most organizations do not wait to challenge for the Shingo Prize until they are likely to achieve it. Rather, they use their challenge as part of their progression as a way to guide their journey of continuous improvement. Not all organizations are interested in challenging for an award; nonetheless, we invite all to use the Shingo Model and assessment methodology to help expose gaps and transform their culture. For those interested in challenging for an award there are three levels of recognition in place to encourage organizations to engage and leverage the Shingo Model as early as possible in their cultural transformation. Organizations have the opportunity to receive the Shingo Bronze Medallion, Shingo Silver Medallion, or the Shingo Prize.

Please note: Achievement reports are accepted at anytime throughout the year. Achievement reports not received in time to process before the Shingo Annual Conference (usually held in April or May) will be recognized at the following Shingo Annual Conference.

If you are trying to ensure recognition at a specific year’s Shingo Annual Conference, you should submit your achievement report by August 1. If the achievement report is turned in after this date, we will process it as quickly as possible on a FIFO basis. It still may be processed in time for the conference.