Award Process

Before the award year begins		1.  The best way to begin the Delaware Quality Award application process is to become a Delaware Quality Award Examiner. It is currently recommended that applying organizations have at least one employee or team member serve as an Examiner in the year prior to application. In future award years, this may become a requirement. 2. Review the Organizational Benefits and Guidelines for Participation.
January-March		1.  Make an appointment for a free Leadership Overview and Needs Assessment 2. Review the Award Application Levels 3. Review the Award Criteria
April 1		Complete and submit the Intent to Apply form
January-May		Award Application Preparation
May 31		Submission of Application and Fee
June-August		Assessment of applications by Evaluation Teams of examiners.
August 1		Deadline for submission of the Baldrige Express Survey Self-Assessment for Commitment and Merit level award applicants.
September		Site Visits by Evaluation Teams. Each applicant is guaranteed a 2-3 day site visit by a team of trained examiners. Following the Site Visit, the teams produce preliminary feedback reports.
November		Judges' Deliberation. A panel of judges review evaluation team reports, ensure consistency across teams, and make recommendations on award recipients.
December		Delaware Quality Award Recipients are announced through a press release.
December-January		Feedback Reports sent to applicants and follow-up briefings scheduled.
February		Delaware Quality Award Banquet to honor recipients and volunteers.