The experience on management systems certification as an enabler for social responsibility external assessment

Purpose – The aim of this paper is twofold. Firstly, to propose an external assessment model for the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) based on a literature review. Secondly, to test the acceptance of the model using a sample of organizations of the Spanish UNGC Network.
Design/methodology/approach – A literature review search has been conducted for the first aim and 36 papers were analyzed in-depth. For the second aim, 74 valid questionnaires were analyzed to know the level of acceptance and importance of the model proposed by the Spanish UNGC Network organizations. Findings – A model proposal based on the Communication of Progress external assessment has been presented. Its empirical test shows that organizations of the sample present a higher level of acceptance of the model, but no differences between organizations with certified and not-certified management systems (MSs) have been found. The main advantages of the model are to improve UNGC transparency and compliance, eliminating criticisms about the lack of credibility. However, despite the model implementation is voluntary; it implies some costs to involved parties. Implications for organizations, United Nations and governments are proposed based on these findings.
Originality/value –This work contains one of the first models proposing a detailed UNGC reporting verification process and tests its acceptance empirically.

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Supply Chain Quality Management; Process Management; Integration; Sugarcane Chain