Integration: is it the key to effective implementation of the EFQM Excellence Model?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the integration issues that are important to consider when attempting to implement the European Foundation for Quality Management's (EFQM's) Excellence Model in UK universities. The aim of this paper is to explore the role that integration plays in effecting this implementation and to see how, in practice, integration might be achieved. Design/methodology/approach – A literature review reveals several factors in relation to integration. These factors were explored in four case studies of the implementation of the EFQM Excellence Model in UK universities. Findings – Evidence was found to support the view that the more that integration took place, the more likely it would be that implementation would be effective. Research limitations/implications – The research only covers four cases and therefore is only generalisable back to theory rather than to the population of UK university academic units. Practical implications – The paper proposes mechanisms for integrating the use of the EFQM Excellence Model into the organisation. Originality/value – This paper makes a contribution to the understanding of integration and its effect on the implementation of a quality improvement methodology. Academic managers in universities (and possibly managers in other organizations) may find its recommendations useful if planning a similar implementation.