A Model for ISO 9000 Quality Management System Maintenance

Abstract

This study examines the roles of perception and belief in influencing ISO 9000 practitioners to maintain the quality management system during the post- certification period. The creation of a model to examine the causal relationships between practitioners' beliefs and ISO 9000 maintenance was guided by a cross-disciplinary approach that was based on the theory of reasoned action and the technology acceptance model. The model was founded on two paths: conceptual learning and operational learning. The former involves learning via a structured approach, while the latter relates to unstructured influences from ISO 9000 practitioners' peers and management. Data were gathered from 210 subjects, and structural equation modeling was used to analyze and test the model. The tests determined that both quality management systems practitioners' beliefs and peer and management support have a positive effect upon sustainable ISO 9000 maintenance.