Maximizing the success of balanced scorecard implementation in the hospitality industry

The balanced scorecard (BSC) is increasingly being adopted by firms in the corporate sector, with some studies estimating that more than 40% of the Fortune 100 companies will implement the BSC by 2001. Analogous to the instrument panel of a plane, the BSC provides management with a holistic view of what is happening inside and outside the organization. A well-designed BSC can help management to translate the organization's mission into goals, actions and performance measures, align individual and organizational goals, and measure/guide progress towards goal attainment. However, the BSC is not without its share of pitfalls and problems. This article discusses how hospitality establishments also can reap the benefits from implementing the BSC while avoiding its pitfalls. We provide an overview of the nature of the BSC, and review two case studies from the hospitality industry. Findings from discussions with hotel general managers also are reported. These managers strongly support the potential usefulness of the BSC in their industry. Then we draw on examples and experiences of organizations that have implemented the BSC to provide a comprehensive discussion of the pitfalls to avoid in BSC development and implementation.