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 2020 Benchmarking Application is now OPEN.  Click on the login link about to being the self evaluation.  The Benchmarking Survey becomes the Application for our annual Spark Awards. Applying for the Awards is not mandatory.  You can Benchmark your company throughout the year and are not required to apply to utilize the survey tool. BUT If you would like to apply  It's as simple as clicking on "Submit to Judges" during the open application period in the winter. Traditionally the application period runs from late fall though the New Year.  

This data helps the Association evaluate the needs of our members. Your company's results will remain private, and are only shared if you are a finalist (Top 3), and of course with your permission. The results of the surveys are compiled, and we utilize the data to focus on the critical areas for education throughout the next year. 

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)
​
*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)