A longitudinal assessment of the linkages among the Baldrige criteria using independent reviewers’ scores

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships among the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) criteria using a unique data set: the independent reviewers’ scores. In order to assess the validity of the Baldrige model over time, two time periods were used: 1992–1994 and 2003–2005. Using structural equation modeling, the findings suggest that the Baldrige model is valid and reliable. The Baldrige model is collectively sound and robust with respect to the measurement criteria, and that level of robustness has not changed over time. Consistent with previous studies, leadership is the main driver of the system and has a significant effect on other elements of the model during all periods. The findings indicate that the Baldrige model is less powerful in predicting business results for 2003–2005 data. This suggests that reliance on the Baldrige model may not lead to sustainable competitive advantage over time, and firms need to address new practices in their quality programs in order to maintain a sustainable competitive advantage. This could be attributed to the inability of the Baldrige model to provide a comprehensive and integrative perspective on organizational processes.