Recent and Current Research
Organisational & Business Research
ISO9001, ISO9004 and ISO14001 - the delivery of benefits to stakeholders
The ECforBE has started the first phase of a study investigating the benefits of adopting the ISO 9000/14000 series of standards. The research is funded by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and the findings should be reported later in the year.
However, an early analysis of existing research into this area has already demonstrated identifiable links between business performance and ISO registration, and some of these findings have already been cited in the press. To view the latest Daily Telegraph article citing these early findings, please follow this link...
These early findings are promising, but reflect previous studies. This current ECforBE project should provide further evidence of whether or not there are tangible benefits to be gained form ISO registration.
Good Practice in the UK Public Relations Industry - Findings Published
A major research programme undertaken by the ECforBE and funded by the Institute for Public Relations (IPR) and the DTI published its findings in November 2003. The survey sought to investigate and identify good practice and future trends within the UK PR industry and incorporated both postal and internet surveys, interviews and discussion groups. This is the largest study of its kind ever conducted within the PR industry to date.
The summary and full report can be viewed on the IPR website, and through the ECforBE Resource Centre and Research Reports sections of this site.
BQF Approach to Best Practice Benchmarking
The ECforBE team is supporting the British Quality Foundation (BQF) and Leeds University Business School (LUBS) in running a Best Practice Benchmarking programme focused on the fundamental areas of modern business activity. This is a rare opportunity for businesses to assess and raise their public profile and join the growing number of leading UK organisations. Benchmarking is recognised by successful organisations as a practical and proven tool to accelerate improvement by learning from other outstanding organisations.
Studies have included:
- Effective Leadership - featuring Professor Malcolm Higgs, of Henley Management College
- Performance Measurement - featuring Professor Andy Neely, of Cranfield University and London Business School
- Customer Satisfaction - featuring Professor John Murphy, of Manchester Business School
ECforBE RESEARCH
The Stakeholder Benefits of ISO Registration
Early findings from existing studies reported in the UK's Daily Telegraph suggest business benefits to be gained from registration.
Unlocking the Potential of Public Relations
Continued global interest in this DTI/IPR funded UK study into what constitutes good practice in the PR industry highlights the need for further research.