Motivational factors for the adoption of ISO 9001 standards in Eastern Europe: the case of Bulgaria

摘要

The main purpose of this study is to analyze the motivational factors for ISO 9001 certification in Bulgaria based on the dual model, or in other words from the internal/external motivations perspective. The first internationally recognized study on ISO certification in the country represents a sample of 127 companies, both manufacturing and services firms, and the analysis of the obtained data indicates that enhanced company image and competitiveness is the leading motivational factor for ISO 9001 certification. Nevertheless, we conclude that Bulgarian firms are not predominantly externally driven. Furthermore, our study claims that enhanced company image and competitiveness has a stronger impact on motivation for ISO 9001 certification than customer and supplier pressure, which is in line with previous research works developing economy economies such as Bulgaria. Finally, our study indicates a moderate, yet positive correlation between motivations and benefits of ISO 9001 certification.