Title: Frame work of conceptual model for quality management in small and medium enterprises

Authors: S. Gopinath; V.R. Alagu Sundaram; R. Sheshathri; K. Narashiman

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Anna University, Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Anna University, Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Anna University, Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, India ' Department of Chemical Engineering, Alagappa College of Technology, Anna University, Guindy, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the developing economy, a pushing force the economy all over the globe involving a large workforce. This study aims to explore the obstacles to implement the effective quality system in Indian SMEs. The current scenario of SMEs, detailed literature survey and experts opinion, initiated the authors to design a conceptual model with six critical factors as an independent variables such as quality tools and techniques, total productive maintenance, quality assurance and control, quality certification, employee training and involvement, safety and environment and two dependent variables such as internal customer satisfaction and external customer satisfaction. The moderating variables are also introduced such as top management commitment and supplier relationship management to study the impact of moderator on the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables. The authors are suggesting this conceptual model implement in SMEs, enhance their overall efficiency and responsiveness.

Keywords: small and medium enterprises; SME; quality management; QM; gross domestic product; GDP; conceptual model; ministry of micro; small and medium enterprises; MSME.

DOI: 10.1504/IJENM.2018.093709

International Journal of Enterprise Network Management, 2018 Vol.9 No.2, pp.143 - 155

Accepted: 02 Nov 2017
Published online: 01 Aug 2018 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article