"Paragon" is defined by Webster as a model of excellence or perfection. SHRM-KC's Paragon program builds on this definition and applies it to five facets of the human resources function. The Paragon process is built on the belief that organizations that follow a conscious, systematic approach to human resource programs and actions that are directly related and aligned to the organization's goals and objectives will result in an effective and successful human resource function that, in turn, supports the overall effectiveness and success of the organization.
Paragon Program Objectives
The SHRM-KC Paragon program has three primary objectives:
1. To support improved human resources practices and capabilities with alignment to organizational strategy, goals, and objectives.
2. To recognize organizations who demonstrate excellence in Human Resources practices and programs covering one or more facet.
3. To facilitate communications and share best practices among organizations of all types.
Facets of Excellence
The five facets selected exemplify critical areas impacted by the Human Resources function. They are:
1. Employment and Communication
2. Organizational and Employee Learning & Development
3. Recruitment, Selection and Onboarding
4. Total Rewards
5. Workplace Diversity
Each Facet of Excellence focuses on the processes an organization uses to:
þ Select the human resource programs/tools/initiatives it undertakes;
þ Ensure there is appropriate linkage and alignment of human resources programs/tools/initiatives to the organization's strategy;
þ Determine its systematic planning and approach for successful implementation of human resources programs/tool/initiatives;
þ Execute the programs/tools/initiatives and communicate with the stakeholders throughout the process
þ Measure and evaluate the effectiveness of those human resources programs/tools/initiatives and deliver improved results over time.
Changes to the Program
We have recently updated our program to better support the overall membership while maintaining the prestige of the award. The most significant change is the added flexibility for organizations to submit applications throughout the year, rather than during one limited time period. Details regarding the Paragon Program are outlined in the Paragon 2009 Instruction Booklet available on this website. In summary, here are highlights of the 2009 changes:
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Applications will be accepted throughout the year rather than as an annual process. Organizations will be evaluated individually by our panel of examiners with awards determined on the individual merit of the organization's submission.
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The overall Readiness Assessment as well as the individual facet application forms will be available to our membership for their own internal use at no cost as a self-assessmen tool.
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Organizations submitting an application for award consideration will be subject to the following nonrefundable application fees (based on calendar year submissions):
One Facet - $150
Two Facets - $250
Three Facets - $300
Four or Five Facets - $400
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Applicants will be notified within 90 days of the panel of examiner's assessment.
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Facets of Excellence will be awarded to successful organizations at their workplace and announced at the next subsequent SHRM-KC membership meeting.
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Best practices provided by the winning organizations will be shared with the membership.
Readiness Assessments
The Readiness Assessments for each facet are now available to allow you to begin your evaluation process and determine what area(s) you choose to further assess.
Application
Individual facet applications are posted in PDF format and available when you are ready to move forward in the application process. The Paragon 2009 Instruction Booklet has all the details you need to begin preparing for and completing your application for one or more Facets of Excellence. Remember - once you are ready to start preparing your application, be sure you complete and submit your "Intent to Apply" form. You'll then receive the Word version of the application for completion.
