A Pratical Benchmark for Quality Certification in Business Incubators

Abstract

This study aims to create a pract ical quality benchmark for incubators. The benchmark is a model to be followed in order to help incubators deploy all processes defined by the quality accreditation label called Centro de Referência para Apoio a Novos Empreendimentos [Reference Center fo r Support to New Ventures] -Cerne. The purpose of this label is to standardize the processes and level the quality of the incubators. The study was based mainly on two tools of quality management. One is the PDCA cycle and the other is the 5W2H. There are countless benefits fro m this certification. A mong such benefits: ensuring the incubated companies higher quality in rendered services; enhancing the visibility and credibility of the incubator and incubated companies; reducing process variability; increasing the competitiveness of the incubator; in addition to benefiting fro m a more effective and systematic management system. Thus, this practical benchmark will be very useful for any incubator that has an interest in receiving the Cerne accred itation. Those involved with the incubators had a positive experience with the objective material, with clear and organized information. With this material, it will be simp ler to systematize and standardize the processes required by Cerne accreditation.