What defines a "best practice" in management?

A "best practice" in management is defined as a technique that is most effective at achieving a desired outcome. This concept emphasizes the importance of methods or techniques that have been shown through experience and research to produce superior results when compared to other approaches. The validity of a best practice is often established through evidence or proven success in particular contexts, showing that it leads to enhanced performance or efficiency.

In the context of management, best practices can incorporate various aspects such as decision-making processes, operational frameworks, strategies for team management, and customer relations. The key focus is on effectiveness—best practices are those techniques that deliver the greatest benefits and results over time.

This definition distinguishes best practices from merely being faster or cheaper, as efficiency alone does not guarantee effectiveness. Examples include standardized processes in project management that consistently yield high-quality outcomes or best customer service techniques that result in increased client satisfaction. Thus, the aspect of achieving a desired outcome is central to the definition of a best practice in management.