L’impiego del EFQM Business Excellence Model nella misura delle performance degli approvvigionamenti. Uno studio quantitativo

[Autom. eng. transl.] Object of the paper: The present work aims to test a self-assessment tool inspired by the EFQM Business Excellence Model and developed to support companies in the continuous improvement of their procurement processes. Methodology: Through a quantitative analysis conducted on a sample of 118 companies, extracted from a database that collects the results of a self-assessment process of the procurement functions of multinational companies, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted first, followed by a path analysis. Results: the article demonstrates how the system of enablers and results that characterizes the EFQM Business Excellence Model can constitute a valid reference for the evaluation of the degree of maturity of the bodies in charge of managing the sourcing processes and to guide the complex of actions that can lead to improved procurement performance. Research limits: the self-assessment tool adopted in this study is based on the use of quantities measured on Likert scales. In perspective, it is desirable to undertake further empirical investigations to verify the effectiveness of the model also through quantitative indicators. Practical implications: The proposed model is an effective tool to highlight the contribution of the procurement function to the achievement of company results. Furthermore the use of self-assessment tools can facilitate internal and external benchmarking projects. Originality of the paper: the main element of the originality of the work consists in the application of a methodology, consolidated in the context of quality management, in the procurement processes, an area in which the debate on performance measurement systems appears relevant for the increasing importance of the function .