This paper critically examines how criteria are formulated and applied
in quality assurance or quality improvement systems. It begins by dra
wing attention to the division that exists between criteria derived by
so-called expert groups and those developed more locally by practitio
ners. In seeking to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of these two
contrasting approaches, it explores the more fundamental questions of
how criteria are formulated in general and how they can best be applie
d. An evaluative framework is offered as a working checklist for pract
itioners involved in criteria formulation. The framework identifies th
ree main areas: actual construction of criteria; procedures for formul
ation and issues related to application. An example of each area is of
fered from results of the ODySSSy Project. The paper concludes by reco
mmending more systematic studies in this highly complex area.