HRPA distinguishes between competitive benchmarking (comparing with direct competitors in the same industry ) and functional benchmarking (comparing similar processes across different industries ). To identify best practices among similar organizations in the same industry , managers should use competitive benchmarking . Historical (C) compares with one’s own past, and customer information (B) focuses on customer data rather than peer best practices.

Relevant Framework Reference (HRPA): Professional Competency Framework—Organizational Effectiveness and Reporting and Financial Management (use of benchmarking to improve processes and outcomes); HRPA Study Guide—types of benchmarking and appropriate application.

In HRPA’s health, safety, and wellness guidance, psychological first aid (PFA) training is positioned as a frontline skillset that builds mental health literacy , enabling employees and leaders to recognize signs of distress, provide immediate supportive responses, and encourage appropriate referral —without turning staff into clinicians. It is not intended to train employees as counsellors, nor is it limited to explaining stress causes or costing; its core aim is to equip the workforce with practical, early-response knowledge and skills that support psychological health and safe return-to-function.