Login to Benchmarking Survey Tool

​In 1902, Aurora-based manufacturers sparked a conversation with other industrialists looking to address issues important to business owners and operators.  That SPARK ignited the creation of what we now know as Valley Industrial Association.

Spark Awards celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of member companies in the areas of Culture, Innovation, Operational Excellence, Safety, Social Responsibility and Workforce Development.  These achievements are measured by our Benchmarking for Excellence Survey tool available at www.viaspark.org 

Benchmarking for Excellence Survey serves two purposes: ​

1. ​Each set of criteria shows Best Practices* on the topic. Companies can see what they could work on next by looking at any unchecked items.  It is both a benchmarking tool and a road map.  And it's available year-round!  Share your path to excellence with your team and revisit as necessary. 
   
2. The 2021 Benchmarking Application is now CLOSED.  Click on the login link to begin the self evaluation.  The Benchmarking Survey becomes the Application for our annual Spark Awards once the application period is open and you Click Submit to Judges. Applying for the Awards is not required.  Benchmark your company throughout the year to utilize the tool.  Traditionally the application period runs from late fall though the New Year.  

The results of the surveys are compiled, and we utilize the data to focus on the critical areas for education throughout the next year which helps the Association address theneeds of our members. Your company's results will remain private unless you are a finalist, and of course want the recognition. 
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Any member company, who completes the survey for ALL 6 Categories will receive a report that shows where their company falls within the group of respondents (see sample images)
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*Best Practices are determined by our Benchmarking for Excellence Committee of peers and subject-matter-experts within our VIA community. 

View the Survey Questions

Sample:   OVERVIEW Results Report

(provided when all six categories are submitted for evaluation)