The implementation of cross-functional teams in SMEs: the impact on the competitive priorities
by Andreas Efstathiades; Christodoulos Efstathiades; Hariton Efstathiades
International Journal of Economics and Business Research (IJEBR), Vol. 12, No. 4, 2016

Abstract: The development of cross-functional teams (CFT) so as to safeguard the proper communication between the departments and the achievement of a competitive advantage is one of the major concerns of business organisations worldwide. The aim of this paper is to examine the management of the implementation/operation of cross-functional teams (CFT) in SMEs and identify the way they influence the competitive priorities (cost, quality, time flexibility) and hence organisation success. The study provides empirical evidence on practical issues related to the implementation of cross-functional implementation teams. The results reveal that the guiding factor forcing the organisations to implement CFT is their aim to satisfy customer needs by providing a value for money product to the customers. The regression models developed indicate that successful team development practices, application of quality management practices, and relationship building among team members have a significant impact on the proper operation of CFT and positive impact on companies' competitive priorities.

Online publication date: Thu, 29-Dec-2016

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Economics and Business Research (IJEBR):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com