The Reliability Readiness Evaluation and Improvement Program, a collaborative program conducted by the Regional Entities and NERC, assesses the readiness of the operational entities to continue to oversee the reliable operation of the bulk power system. Readiness evaluations are conducted on a three-year cycle for the Reliability Coordinator, the Transmission Operator and the Balancing Authority. The Transmission Owner, which supports the operation of the RC, TOP and BA, is also to be reviewed on a cycle of three years. The NERC Reliability Readiness Evaluation and Improvement Program promotes excellence in operations by establishing a dialogue between the review team and the entity being reviewed and by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas. Opportunities for improvement and examples of excellence are identified in the review process that will assist not only the audited entity, but all entities of the North American bulk power system improve their ability to operate the power system.