Evaluating outcomes from ISO 9000-certified quality systems of Hong Kong constructors

ISO 9000-certified quality systems have increased rapidly in many industrie s and countries, including Hong Kong. A study was recently launched to iden tify the motivators, perceived advantages/benefits and disadvantages/drawba cks of implementing ISO 9000-certified quality systems in Hong Kong constru ction organizations. The experiences of 33 construction contractors indicat e that although net benefits are perceived, the main motivator behind the i mplementation of ISO 9000-certified quality systems is to meet customer pre requisites, such as to qualify for public works tender lists. The principal perceived benefits of ISO 9000-certified quality systems for constructors include more systematic record keeping, improved internal communication and enhanced competitiveness of the company. On the other hand, the principal drawbacks are perceived to be more paperwork, increased time spent in manag ement and higher overall project cost. A high degree of agreement was obser ved between medium and large constructors on the ranking of the relative st rengths of such outcomes. Common strategies may thus be formulated to enhan ce the net benefits from a constructor's viewpoint.