Judging for the 2008 National Housing Quality (NHQ) Award has been completed, and a total of five builders and trade companies have qualified as finalists this year. Patterned after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the NHQ Award represents the residential building industry's highest recognition for quality achievement. Now in its 15th season, the NHQ Awards will be announced at the 2007 Professional Builder Benchmark Conference in Atlanta, Ga. on September 26.

The NHQA process requires builders and trade companies to analyze every aspect of their company and business practices. Entries are judged by a panel of experts who evaluate the role that customer-focused quality plays in construction, business management, sales, design, and warranty service. Participants benefit from the introspection and self-assessment as much as from the insightful feedback they receive from the judges. In addition, eligible entrants receive a detailed homebuyer satisfaction report prepared by Avid Ratings Company. Some entrants believe that — win or not — the process, along with the experts’ comprehensive evaluative report, is a valuable tool for planning strategic change to improve their business.

The NHQA is sponsored by the NAHB Research Center and Professional Builder magazine. NHQ Award winners are featured in Professional Builder articles highlighting their companies’ quality management principles. Winners also participate in the NHQ Award panel discussion at the International Builders' Show and are asked to share non-proprietary business practices so others might learn from their success.

Register for the Benchmark Conference today and gain fresh ideas to help you excel by delivering consistent quality. To learn more about the National Housing Quality Awards, visit the NAHB Research Center’s NHQA site. 

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