A Research Agenda of “EFQM Recognized for Excellence” recipients in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Abstract
 This paper provides a general approach to explore an appropriateness of business excellence models (BEMs) in Czech environment and investigates whether there is a specific approach to the adoption of best management practices in organizations embedded in the EFQM Excellence Model including as a part of national quality awards (NQAs) and evaluate impact on their key performance indicators. The aim of the paper is to provide an overview of the BEMs approach in the Czech Republic and found the relevance with the issues of resulting from the implementation of the EFQM model and selected performance indicators. As an example was involved the Czech companies awarded in NQAs in the area of excellence between 2010 and 2016. Based on a reflection of the current situation, there is still discussion about the implications for the implementation of the EFQM Excellence Model on the performance indicators. Using a qualitative methodology, based on case studies, we conducted a detailed analysis of key performance indicators before and after of the adoption of the EFQM Excellence Model, as well the company's current state of maturity. This study is based on information gathered through an extensive literature review using print media, research databases, and we also employed the available reporting for awarded companies. We systemized the variables of business excellence with the higher impact on organizational performance. The main findings of this study are in accordance with other studies carried out across Europe, namely the fact that the internal motivations are the key factor for the implementation of the EFQM Excellence Model, support of involvement from NQAs, the key role is in willingness of top managers (or owners) and methodological helpful is an implementation of ISO 9001 certification. On the basis of selected performance indicators, the positive development of the companies was demonstrated. This study contributes to the management literature on best practices, by highlighting a consistent trend in the use of the EFQM Excellence model, and is expected to help in the development and broadening of the excellence approach in the business environment.