Evolution of Integrated Management Systems in Spanish firms

The aim of this paper is to analyze the evolution of the implementation and integration of standardized Management Systems (MSs) such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Specifically, we study the implementation of different standards during a four-year period (2006–2010) and we examine the level of integration of different MS elements such as the resources, documentation, goals and procedures during this period. Additionally, the paper aims to evaluate the impact of integration on companies over time, namely the difficulties experienced by firms during the integration of MSs in organizations with more than one MS. In order to accomplish these objectives, the first dynamic study on the integration of MSs has been undertaken.In order to compare firms that integrate their MSs in two different moments in time, two empirical studies were conducted, one in 2006 and one in 2010. These studies used a survey directed to firms with more than one MS in Catalonia (Spain).This paper contributes to the understanding of how firms that have an Integrated Management System (IMS) integrate their standardized MSs and how they perceive the challenges related to managing the IMS over time. It also demonstrates that firms integrate their MSs rather than keep them separated, therefore showing a tendency toward integration over time.