SIGMA

In the context of sustainable development a simple model for this leadership and management process is set out in the table below . The phases contained within the model are not set out in any priority for action, but do closely align with the Denning plan the do, check, act cycle mentioned previously when looking at EMS.

This table is derived from The SIGMA Project (Sustainability – Integrated Guidelines for Management) (go to their webstie). This was launched in 1999 by the British Standards Organisation, Forum for the Future and AccountAbility, with support from Department of Trade and Industry.

The SIGMA project has developed guidelines which help organisations to:

  • Effectively meet challenges posed by social, environmental and economic dilemmas, threats and opportunities.
  • Become architects of a sustainable future.

Management Phase Purpose Action
Leadership and Vision To raise awareness of sustainability issues and how they may affect the organisation’s quality and performance
  • To secure board level and senior management understanding and commitment to integrate sustainability into core management processes and decision-making
  • To identify stakeholders and consult them on key impacts and approaches
  • To develop a business case for sustainability
  • To formulate a long-term sustainability vision and high-level strategy.
Planning To establish the organisation’s current sustainability performance
  • To identify and prioritise the organisation’s key sustainability issues
  • To develop a strategic plan to deliver the organisation’s vision and address the key sustainability issues
  • Consult with stakeholders on plans
  • To formulate tactical and short-term action plans that supports the agreed sustainability strategy, with defined objectives, targets and responsibilities
Delivery To align and prioritise management processes with strategic and tactical planning and the sustainability vision
  • To ensure that identified actions, impacts and outcomes and current and future legal and self regulatory requirements are managed
  • To improve quality and performance by delivering sustainability strategies and associated action plans
  • To apply appropriate external influence on suppliers, peers and others to widen the sustainability agenda
Monitor, Review and Report To monitor progress against objectives and targets
  • To report and consult with internal and external stakeholders on progress