ISPI Performance Improvement Standards

Human performance technology (HPT), a systematic approach to improving productivity and competence, uses a set of methods and procedures, and a strategy for solving problems and realizing opportunities related to the performance of people.

HPT is a process of selection, analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of programs to influence human behavior and accomplishment most cost effectively. It can be applied to individuals, small groups, and large organizations. HPT is a systematic combination of three fundamental processes:

Performance analysis
Cause analysis
Intervention (solution) selection

The ten performance improvement standards are based on three components:

Following ISPI's four principles
- Focusing on results
- Taking a systemic view
- Adding value
- Partnering with clients, colleagues, and other experts
Following a systematic process
Agreeing to Code of Ethics

The ten standards are summarized here:

Focus on results and help clients focus on results.
Look at situations systemically taking into consideration the larger context including competing pressures, resource constraints, and anticipated change.
Add value in how you do the work and through the work itself.
Utilize partnerships or collaborate with clients and other experts as required.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the assessment of the need or opportunity.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the analysis of the work and workplace to identify the cause or factors that limit performance.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the design of the solution or specification of the requirements of the solution.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the development of all or some of the solution and its elements.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the implementation of the solution.
Be systematic in all aspects of the process including the evaluation of the process and the results.