A relevant literary space on the use of the European Foundation for Quality Management model: current state and challenges

Abstract

Purpose: Localise and characterise a relevant literary space on the use of the European Foundation for Quality Management model, portraying the current state of its use and its challenges under systematic review methods. Methodology: The work is cross-cutting descriptive. The following stages were involved: (1) identifying (3 search terms, 11 inclusion/exclusion criteria, sample of 22 studies: 25.9% of an 85-study population); (2) describing (lessons learned from each article); (3) characterising (15 variables, e.g. aims, contexts of use, analysis techniques); and (4) documenting (1. Aims and contexts, 2. Methodology criteria, and 3. Framework portraying the state of the use and emerging questions). Findings: Many studies have explored: (1) utility of the model in decision-making and (2) internal validity. Although the model aims for balanced stakeholder results, main source of data is the employees. The study deduces 14 questions that help define research agendas. It also summarises the methods used to guide possible decisions by researchers. Limitations: Findings come from the analysis of a given set of articles obtained with a specific search algorithm used in Scopus. Given the variety of contexts where the model has been used, further research is recommended to properly understand the specificities of those sectors.