Developing a Localized Organizational Excellence Model Based on EFQM for Preschool Education in Shiraz
Keywords:
Organizational Excellence, Preschool Education, EFQM Model, Localized Model, Educational ManagementAbstract
This study aimed to design and validate a localized organizational excellence model based on the EFQM 2020 framework for non-governmental preschool centers in Shiraz. An exploratory sequential mixed-method design was employed; in the qualitative phase, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 21 experts and document analysis and analyzed using thematic analysis in Maxqda24, resulting in 4 dimensions, 13 components, and 105 indicators; in the quantitative phase, a 105-item researcher-developed questionnaire was administered to 97 preschool managers and instructors, and the data were analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS with structural equation modeling. Structural equation modeling indicated that the “Results” dimension exerted the strongest influence on organizational excellence (loading = 0.956), followed by “Execution” (0.948), “Support” (0.886), and “Orientation” (0.783); one-sample t-tests revealed an overall unfavorable status of organizational excellence in Shiraz preschools; all factor loadings were significant and exceeded 0.4; the proposed model demonstrated strong validity based on comprehensibility (4.23), adaptability (4.17), generalizability (4.13), and controllability (3.76). The validated localized model provides a coherent and practical framework for enhancing management quality, educational performance, stakeholder responsiveness, and organizational sustainability in preschool institutions and offers a reliable foundation for educational policy and decision-making.
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