Studying the effect of strategic thinking dimensions on the implementation of the EFQM excellence model

Organizational excellence models are used as proper instruments for measuring the deployment success of systems in different organizations. The present study attempted to investigate the effect of market orientation besides strategic thinking dimensions on the EFQM model of excellence. In the proposed model, the effect of strategic thinking dimensions including systems thinking, organizational vision, and creativity on the enablers and the results of the EFQM model were investigated. Considerably, market orientation was proposed as a strategic thinking dimension and its effects on enablers and results of the EFQM model were examined.

Design/methodology/approach:

 This study was conducted in a steel company where the EFQM excellence model has been implemented. For investigating the effects of strategic thinking dimensions on the EFQM model, eight hypotheses were designed. These hypotheses were tested based on 189 questionnaires and the concepts of the subject were determined. Structural Equations Modelling (SEM) and Smart PLS 3 software used for data analysis.

The results indicated that the two variables of organizational vision and market orientation had a great effect on the implementation of the EFQM excellence model in the company. Respectively, by strengthening these two issues through training and practical plans, the implementation of the EFQM excellence model can be strengthened.

Practical implications: 

The results of this research can help managers in designing and planning practical measures to successfully implement the EFQM model of excellence. By considering and empowering the organizational vision and market orientations, managers achieve better implementation of the excellence model in the organization.

Originality/value:

 The market orientation is a dimension of strategic thinking which seems to be neglected by previous studies. In this study, the effects of market orientation along with the other dimensions of strategic thinking were investigated on the enablers and results of the excellence model.