The Moderating Factors Assessment of ISO 9001 – Quality Management System (QMS) of Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) In Tarlac Province

Abstract

This study investigates the critical moderating factors of ISO 9001 – Quality Management System of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) within Tarlac Province. By employing a mixed-method approach through a structured interview questionnaire and using Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) in hypothesis testing of this study, the research paper assessed the moderating factors such as their ISO 9001’s awareness, willingness adaptability, financial and human resources, QMS alternative practices controls, seven dimensions of quality, and barriers implementing a standard and potential benefits and impact of this factors to the ISO 9001 adaptation and certification of MSMEs, data were collected through guided interview survey-questionnaires and document review and analysis. The study reveals that there are three critical or important moderating factors in adapting and implementing ISO 9001 standards, including the importance of Awareness such as understanding of ISO standards, Financial and Human resources, for instance, limited resources of the MSMEs, and the seven (7) dimensions of quality, Notably, the study emphasizes how this critical factor will influence and its importance in the adaptation of the ISO 9001 in their organization. This research contributes to the body of literature and knowledge on ISO 9001, the locale of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, by examining the moderating factors behind the adaptation and implementation of ISO 9001 certification.