Theoretical foundation of the EFQM model: the resource-based view

This paper analyses in detail the European quality model and proves that it uses, as implicit theoretical basis, a brand-new organizational theory, i.e. the resource-based view. It analyses the usefulness of the EFQM model to identify the most representative resources and capabilities of the enterprise that allow us to identify what part of its structure generates the key resources to create competitive advantages. This work confirms the merits of the EFQM quality model as an effective tool to measure the basis of the competitive advantage of a given organization. Its main contribution lies in the theoretical support of a quality model widely used by European enterprises.