About NPAG
National Benchmarking
Since, 1993 the main focus of NPAG activity has been the provision of national benchmarking and related services within the NHS. Whilst initial data collection, analysis and comparison exercises undertaken were for non-clinical support services, the range of benchmarking exercises extended over time and included clinical services and Allied Health Professionals.
Whilst benchmarking was initially supported by central funds from the Department of Health, from 1996 NPAG national benchmarking exercises operated on a self-financed basis.
All NPAG benchmarking activity undertaken complies with the Benchmarking Code of Conduct.
National Benchmarking Clubs/Best Value Groups
NPAG recognised the requirement, not only for managers to exchange and compare data with their peers, but also for them to be able to interrogate, challenge and verify the data and outcome analysis. In 1997 the NPAG introduced the concept of Benchmarking Clubs to provide managers with a structured benchmarking forum for that purpose.
All national benchmarking clubs facilitated by the NPAG enable managers to benchmark and compare their services; review processes; provide networking opportunities; share experience; identify innovative and good working practice; and develop 'Best Value' services.
The majority of benchmarking clubs have now adopted the branding of best value groups. The NPAG's framework of national benchmarking clubs and best value groups continues to expand, providing managers with an opportunity to network and meet regularly with colleagues throughout the UK. All NPAG Benchmarking/Best Value Groups operate on a subscription basis.
National Events
Since 1997 the NPAG has also organised a programme of national events to enable managers throughout the NHS receive presentations on relevant policy and strategic initiatives, in addition to organisational topics.
NPAG events are targeted at operational managers to support them in addressing their operational, change management and best value agendas. Speakers from the Department of Health, regulatory bodies, NHS managers, other public sector agencies and private sector organisations have regularly made presentations at NPAG events. The presentation of case and pilot studies, describing both the good and the bad elements, helps managers to learn from the actions of others and be better equipped to effectively implement new policies, initiatives and change management processes.
NPAG NetWork
Launched in June 2004, the NPAG NetWork permits subscribers to ask their peers for advice and support through a managed question and answer e-mail system.
Other managers have benefited from the opportunity to co-ordinate questions through the NPAG to fellow Benchmarking/Best Value Group colleagues. Copies of policy documents, SLAs, specifications and business plans are some of the items shared through networking these NPAG member contacts - saving time and money by not reinventing the wheel.
The NPAG NetWork opens the opportunity for others to subscribe to a wider number of contacts.
CPD
In October 2006 the NPAG was accepted as a member of the CPD Certification Service. Future NPAG events will provide delegates with CPD (Continued Professional or Personal Development) certification.
NPAG has now received from CPD for all benchmarking/best value group members to receive certification towards their continued professional/personal development for attendance at group meetings.
Future Developments
The NPAG is planning to enhance the membership package to all BVG members by introducing a range of additional benefits in 2007/2008. The following are planned to commence in the coming year.
NPAG Benchmarking Exercises
For 2007/2008, the NPAG is planning to allow all NPAG BVG members and others to participate in any NPAG benchmarking exercise undertaken within the network of NPAG BVGs. This will assist to populate these exercises and provide better data sets for comparative purposes. Benchmarking Code of Conduct conditions will apply to all exercises.
Private Discussion Groups
The NPAG is collaborating with NHS Networks on to provide a 'Private Discussion Forum' facility for each of the NPAG's Best Value Groups on the NHS Networks website. The NPAG is aiming to have this facility available for its BVGs from 1st April 2007.
Best Practice Club
The NPAG is also in consultation with the Best Practice Club to enable members of all NPAG Best Value Groups to have access to additional networking advice and information from organisations external to the NHS. It is planned to introduce this from April 2007.