The Global Compact Performance Model is a framework to systematically guide companies in their ongoing efforts to implement the Global Compact’s ten principles in the areas of human rights, labour standards, the environment and anti-corruption. It evolved from analysis of and dialogue about company’s actual experiences in trying to internalise the principles. From this analysis and dialogue a degree of consensus emerged around what were the critical factors for successful implementation of the Global Compact. Use of the Performance Model is not mandated, but it has proven to be a helpful framework in understanding how companies are trying to implement the principles. The framework has been used in preparing many case studies about Global Compact participating companies. The Performance Model may be particularly useful for companies that are not sure where to start in embarking on the continuous improvement process that is a key expectation of engagement in the Global Compact.