Why should the term “best practice” be replaced with “proven practice”?
Best practice is an older buzzword and proven practice is the new buzzword.
A proven practice will always work and will never need to be replaced.
A proven practice is proven to be effective in the organization; a best practice might not work in every organization
We want proof it works.
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Using the term "proven practice" instead of "best practice" highlights the importance of empirical evidence and tangible results. Here are a few reasons why "proven practice" may be a more suitable choice:
1. Avoiding the assumption of universality: The term "best practice" suggests that a particular approach or method will always yield the best results in any context. However, different organizations have unique circumstances, cultures, and requirements. A practice may work well in one organization but fail in another. By using "proven practice," we acknowledge that something has demonstrated its effectiveness within a specific context.
2. Emphasizing evidence and data: "Proven practice" inherently implies that the approach has been tested, validated, and backed by evidence. It encourages a focus on collecting data, conducting experiments, and analyzing results to determine what works best in a given situation. This promotes a more scientific and rigorous approach to decision-making and improvement.
3. Encouraging critical evaluation and adaptability: When something is labeled as a "best practice," there can be a tendency to stick with it regardless of changing circumstances. This implicates a lack of openness to innovation and improvement. By using the term "proven practice," organizations are encouraged to continuously reassess their approaches, gather new evidence, and adjust their practices accordingly.
4. Building trust and credibility: The term "proven practice" suggests that the recommended approach has undergone rigorous scrutiny and passed the test of time. It helps build trust among stakeholders, as they know the approach has delivered the promised outcomes before, rather than relying on perceived opinions or fashionable trends.
In summary, replacing "best practice" with "proven practice" promotes a more evidence-based and adaptable approach to organizational improvement, acknowledging the significance of context and empirical validation.