Mainline Rail Benchmarking
What is Benchmarking?
Benchmarking is a structured approach used to identify actions that lead to superior performance.
Opportunities provided by IMRBG’s benchmarking process:
Identifying areas for operational improvement
Best practice transfer and implementation
Cost savings achieved through the spread of best practices and more informed procurement decisions
Structured information exchange and networking – through focused visits and expert groups
Informed dialogue with stakeholders
Process improvements – identified though case studies
Setting performance targets which are challenging, but realistic, supported by internationally comparable Key Performance Indicators
Key Benchmarking Principles
Fundamentally, IMRBG provides a forum for mainline passenger train operators to share their experiences and share information. The following key principles have led to successful mainline rail benchmarking since the group’s inception in 2016:
Confidentiality
IMRBG is based on an open and honest data and information exchange within the group, but not to outside parties. Members are happy to see both their strengths and weaknesses openly so that they can help each other improve.
Independence
The group is owned and run by the members themselves, with project management, benchmarking analysis, and administration conducted by the TSC at Imperial College London. This independence permits the group to pursue its own agenda and focus its efforts in areas of most immediate interest.
Collaboration
Members help each other to improve their railway. The benchmarking process that supports this requires unimpeded information exchange between railways.
Speed
The size of the group and the online interactions through the group’s website permit quick responses for many queries.