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

• Published in: Total quality management & business excellence Vol. 25; no. 3-4; pp. 397 - 411
• Main Authors: Assarlind, Marcus, Gremyr, Ida
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 10-02-2014; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Comparative analysis; critical factors; Goal setting; Initiatives; Management theory; Quality management; Small & medium sized enterprises-SME; small- and medium-sized enterprises; Studies; Success factors; Total quality
• ISSN: 1478-3363; 1478-3371; 1478-3371
• DOI: 10.1080/14783363.2013.851330

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.