Title: Employment generation and economic development through increased operational efficiency of SMEs in Mexico: some research perspectives

Authors: Connie Atristain; Rajagopal

Addresses: Department of Doctoral Studies in Administrative Sciences, EGADE Business School, Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM), Mexico City Campus, Mexico DF. ' Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM), EGADE Business School, Mexico City Campus, Mexico DF

Abstract: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Mexico, form the backbone of the economy in Mexico for their high impact on employment generation and national production. Nevertheless, economic, political and social changes are rapidly taking place in Mexico, including trade liberalisation. In this process, some companies have closed, whereas others have managed to remain on the market. Those SMEs that have survived market competition through efficient manufacturing and operational processes could take hold of the new opportunities in the marketplace. Therefore, this research study is focused on analysing the operational efficiency of SMEs in Mexico. The study discusses various technical propositions to improve the efficiency of SMEs and to enhance their competencies, which will help them achieve business growth. This paper contributes to the understanding of how the internal development of SMEs can provide employment and affect the economic development of Mexico.

Keywords: SMEs; small and medium-sized enterprises; operational efficiency; competency enhancement; competencies; business growth; employment generation; economic development; Mexico.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBCG.2012.046289

International Journal of Business Competition and Growth, 2012 Vol.2 No.2, pp.181 - 199

Published online: 15 Nov 2014 *

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