Organisations demonstrates world-class performance as a high performing organisation where change / transformation is a norm.
Has demonstrated sound, systematic approaches and robust deployment of performance excellence values, principles and practices.
There is clear alignment between their strategy, innovation, performance measures and outcomes. Significant and positive performance and sustained trends are evident across most of the organisation.
Market performance and third-party recognition/ awards are bestowed/accorded upon the applicant.
In addition, the applicant has provided evidence of the following 3 key requirements for World Class Category:
1) Won the National Quality Award (within 3 years preceding year of application)
2) Recommended by National Quality Award Body
3) Supported by APQO Core Council Member

Demonstrated commendable progress that validates applicant is driven towards achieving its Vision. Performs well in a good number of areas and takes change / transformation seriously.
Has demonstrated evidence of sound integration of the principles/values and practices of performance excellence across the organisation.
Innovation and Improvements are planned and actioned across the organisation. Performance improvement resulting from these initiatives are demonstrated across many key areas across the organisation. There are positive results/trends in areas that have of importance to the applicant.
Market performance and third-party recognition e.g. awards are evident.
In addition, the applicant has provided evidence of the following 3 key requirements for Best in Class Category:
1) Won the National Quality Award or its Equivalent (within 3 years preceding year of application)
2) Recommended by National Quality Award Body
3) Supported by APQO Core Council Member

This category is a commendation of an acceptable level of performance excellence and evidence of a good foundation demonstrating organisation's commitment to excellence.
Some good management practices are in evident and has impacted positively on the results/outcome.
The organisation demonstrated a sound understanding of the principles, values and practices of performance excellence.
Efforts towards Innovation and Improvement actions are planned and actioned across most areas of the organisation.
Some key results and improvement performance related to these areas and plans are demonstrated.
In addition, the applicant has provided evidence of the following 2 key requirements:
1) Recommended by National Quality Award Body
2) Supported by APQO Core Council Member