2. Literature Review
The evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) began in the 1950s, with John McCarthy conceptualizing it as the ability of machines to replicate human characteristics, such as understanding and problem solving. Today, AI encompasses a vast field of Computer Science, focused on creating intelligent systems capable of performing tasks that previously required human intelligence. In addition, AI is becoming a crucial tool in business decision-making, both as support for human decision-makers and as a decision-maker in its own right, representing new potential for innovative services and products [
17].
Risk management is essential for identifying, assessing and mitigating potential threats that could negatively impact the organization. According to Parviainen et al. [
18] management standards provide a solid framework for managing risks in a systematic way, including environmental, operational and financial risks. This allows companies to implement effective strategies to minimize losses and seize opportunities, improving resilience and the ability to adapt to market changes. By adopting risk management practices, organizations not only protect their assets and reputation, but also position themselves more solidly in the face of future uncertainties and challenges [
19].
Continuous quality improvement is a central objective in management systems [
20]. Implementing a quality management system encourages process optimization, waste reduction and increased customer satisfaction. This results in more efficient operations and high-quality products or services, which in turn strengthens the company's competitiveness and sustainability. By prioritizing quality at all stages of the production process, organizations demonstrate a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, which are fundamental to long-term success in increasingly demanding and competitive markets [
21].
According to Franchina et al. [
19] the implementation of an ISO 9001:2015-compliant quality management system at clinical trial sites in Italy has demonstrated significant benefits, such as continuous process improvement and higher quality. In addition, this adoption is essential to ensure the execution of corrective actions and the performance of international audits, as well as to encourage a risk management approach.
Cost reduction is one of the main motivators for adopting effective management systems. Implementing these systems allows inefficiencies, waste and redundancies to be identified and eliminated, resulting in significant savings and a better allocation of resources, increasing the company's profitability and competitiveness. According to Fuchs et al. [
22] implementing an energy management system in accordance with ISO 50001 brings benefits to the organization, including cost savings. The standard has helped companies achieve significant energy savings, thereby reducing operating costs related to energy consumption. In addition, many companies report that the additional results of adopting the standard are increased productivity and operational efficiency. Furthermore, the cost savings provided by efficient management practices not only strengthen the organization's financial position, but can also result in more competitive prices for the products or services offered, expanding market opportunities and maximizing return on investment [
23].
Certification can improve a company's image by demonstrating a commitment to high quality standards and social and environmental responsibility. This not only attracts customers and investors, but also strengthens the company's reputation in the market. As stated by Heras-Saizarbitoria et al. [
24] a positive corporate image is a valuable asset that can differentiate the company from its competitors and build a loyal customer base. In addition, a good reputation can open doors to strategic partnerships, business opportunities and collaborations that drive the organization's long-term growth and success [
22].
Adopting sustainable and responsible practices strengthens the organization's values and principles, creating a work environment that is more cohesive and aligned with environmental and social objectives. This not only improves environmental performance, but also engages employees and encourages a sense of collective responsibility, resulting in a more robust and resilient organizational culture. A strong corporate culture is key to attracting and retaining talent, promoting innovation and successfully adapting to market changes, creating a sustainable competitive advantage in the long term [
22].
Implementing efficient practices leads to a more efficient operation, reducing downtime and increasing production capacity, resulting in greater productivity and better use of resources. By optimizing processes and eliminating unnecessary or redundant activities, organizations can significantly improve their operational efficiency, allowing them to achieve their production goals more quickly, economically and consistently. Increased productivity not only benefits the company, but can also improve employee satisfaction, reduce stress in the workplace and promote a more positive and motivating environment for everyone involved [
22].
Promoting transparency builds trust among stakeholders, reducing uncertainty and promoting accountability, as organizations are held to account for their actions and decisions. By adopting transparent policies and practices, organizations can improve their credibility and reputation by demonstrating a commitment to honesty, integrity and accountability in all areas of operation. In addition, transparency can facilitate effective communication and collaboration between different stakeholders, fostering a more collaborative and productive working environment [
18].
By involving a wide range of stakeholders, organizations can gain a more comprehensive understanding of risks and their possible consequences, promoting diversity of perspectives and experiences. Promoting inclusion not only strengthens community and social ties, but can also result in better decisions and solutions, reflecting a more open, democratic and accountable approach to risk management and decision-making. In addition, inclusion can promote innovation and creativity by bringing new ideas and insights into the planning and execution process [
18].
Focusing on compliance with requirements can drive innovation in search of more effective and cost-efficient solutions. By challenging organizations to think creatively and explore new approaches to solving problems and meeting customer expectations, the pursuit of compliance with management standards can stimulate innovation at all levels of the organization. In addition, innovation can provide sustainable competitive advantages by differentiating products and services, opening up new markets and strengthening the company's position as a leader in its sector [
25].
The standardization of indicators allows organizations to compare their performance in a consistent and meaningful way, making it easier to identify the most effective practices in different areas. This promotes the sharing of best practices between organizations, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of knowledge. By learning from each other, organizations can implement improvements based on these best practices, driving innovation and promoting continuous advancement in their operations and results [
23].
Independent data auditing increases the credibility of the information collected by the organization, which is essential for making informed decisions and persuading potential investors and funders. By following recognized standards, organizations improve the reliability of their data, strengthening their position in the market and increasing their attractiveness to potential partners and customers. Reliable data is the basis for accurate analysis and successful strategies, ensuring that decisions are based on accurate and up-to-date information [
23].
As pointed out by Poksinska et al. [
26] certification confers a significant competitive advantage by enhancing the company's reputation and demonstrating its commitment to high standards of quality and sustainability. This can attract new customers, retain existing ones and open up new markets. The competitive advantage is reinforced by the company's ability to differentiate itself from competitors and offer superior value to customers. By investing in certification, companies can position themselves as leaders in their sector, gaining a strategic advantage over their competitors [
24].
The implementation of standards encourages sustainable practices and the optimization of resources, resulting in more economical and environmentally responsible operations [
27]. This involves reducing waste, energy consumption and other resources, contributing to cost savings and increased productivity. Improving operational efficiency not only benefits the company, but also has a positive impact on society and the environment by promoting the responsible use of natural resources and minimizing negative impacts [
28].
Customer satisfaction is a central objective of quality standards such as ISO 9001. Implementing these standards can not only improve the quality of products and services, but also raise customer satisfaction. Standardized processes and a continuous focus on improvement help ensure that customer needs and expectations are consistently met, fostering customer loyalty and recommendation. Customer satisfaction is fundamental to the long-term success of the organization, as satisfied customers are more likely to return and continue doing business [
27].
Increasing the participation of all countries in the digital transformation promotes digital inclusion, which is key to ensuring that everyone can benefit from AI innovations. Reducing digital inequalities means that more people will have access to the tools and resources they need to improve their living conditions. The equitable spread of technology helps to balance opportunities between nations, promoting fairer and more equal development around the world (UN, 2024).
In the literature on multi-criteria analysis, three widely used methods are the Hierarchical Analysis Method (AHP), the Preference Method by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (PROMETHEE) and the Analysis Method by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The AHP, proposed by Saaty in 1990, is a powerful technique for approaching and solving complex and uncertain decision problems. It organizes the criteria into a hierarchy and uses pairwise comparisons to calculate relative weights, allowing the prioritization of alternatives based on subjective judgments. PROMETHEE, on the other hand, is an ordering method based on comparing alternatives in relation to each criterion, using preference functions to assess the dominance of one alternative over another [
30]. Both methods are widely recognized for their ability to deal with complex multi-criteria decision problems, offering structured and systematic approaches to decision-making.
The Ideal Solution Similarity Analysis Method (TOPSIS), according to Singer and Özçelik [
31] is widely used in multi-criteria analysis because of its intuitive and effective approach. TOPSIS orders the alternatives based on their proximity to the positive ideal solution and their distance from the negative ideal solution, making it possible to identify the most balanced alternative in relation to all the criteria considered. This method is valued for its simplicity and its ability to deal with multiple criteria in an objective and straightforward manner.