National culture’s impact on ISO 9001 implementation: A structural equation modelling approach

This study examines the effect of Jordanian national culture on the successful implementation of the ISO 9001 standard and the adoption of its principles. Utilizing a descriptive-analytical methodology, the research included a literature review, survey creation, data collection and analysis, and structural equation modeling. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions were adopted to model the national culture. Conceptually, the study presents a new interpretative framework, indicating that the outcomes of ISO 9001 implementation can be explained by cultural dimensions, mediated by the adoption of ISO 9001 principles. The findings indicate that Jordanian national culture presents obstacles to both adopting and successfully implementing the ISO 9001 standard. Specifically, the cultural dimensions of uncertainty avoidance and indulgence are negatively associated with the adoption of all ISO 9001 principles. Furthermore, the dimensions of uncertainty avoidance, indulgence, and time orientation negatively correlate with the criteria for successful ISO 9001 implementation. Overall, the findings suggest that unique cultural dimensions in each country influence the successful implementation of the ISO 9001 standard.