Critical factors for quality management initiatives in small- and medium-sized enterprises

• Autores: Marcus Assarlind, Ida Gremyra
• Localización: Total Quality Management & Business Excellence, ISSN-e 1478-3371, Vol. 25, Nº. 3-4, 2014, págs. 397-411
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • This paper identifies the critical factors for quality management (QM) initiatives in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The factors are grouped into six categories: contextualisation; gradual implementation using realistic goals; involvement and training of employees; involvement of external support; management involvement; and fact-based follow-up. A further analysis of the literature indicates that well-recognised ideas for improvement in large companies are useful for SMEs as well. However, compared to large companies, more focus is needed on acquiring external support, planning for a QM initiative in line with characteristics of the specific SME, and planning for a gradual implementation of the QM initiative that is followed up by realistic goals.