Quality Management Models for Urban Drinking Water Provision: A Comparative Review

Abstract

Purpose: The management of public resources represents one of the functions of the state apparatus, seeking to safeguard the well-being of the population, particularly in essential resources like potable water.   Theoretical framework: The regulatory or normative framework, based on standards and the action of the public health department for potable water care and use, is too extensive and confusing for users, showing weaknesses in its formulation.   Method: This review article aims to analyze the models of quality management in the provision of urban potable water, employing a qualitative approach and utilizing the PRISMA methodology.   Results and Conclusion:The findings encompass a total of 50 included articles, subjected to eligibility criteria, comprising 76% from the Scopus database, 20% from Proquest, and 4% from Scielo. Consequently, it is concluded that in recent years, the role of the state apparatus in providing urban public potable water services, focusing on quality, has adhered to five management models: direct public management, corporate service enterprise, contracted private management, directly operated private management, and public enterprise.   Research implications: The management models ultimately aim to provide quality in the provision of public services, seeking suitability, responsiveness, system assurance, and compensation for the supply and distribution of one of the fundamental resources for human life.   Originality/value:  This evolution demonstrates that the public role has allied significantly with the private sector, a relationship that has remained, and has yielded positive results in some cases.