Title: How will knowledge sharing and quality management in supply chains affect firm performance? Evidence from the USA

Authors: Iwan Koswara; Malia Faasolo

Addresses: Faculty of Communication Science, Padjadjaran University, Jl. Raya Bandung Sumedang KM.21, Jatinangor, Kabupaten Sumedang, Jawa Barat 45363, Indonesia ' United Airlines Inc., Willis Tower, 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois, 60606, USA

Abstract: This academic work delves into how quality management practices (QMP) in supply chains augment firm performance through knowledge sharing behaviour (KSB) and quality management capacity (QMC). The data was garnered from 276 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in high-pollution industries, including paper, fashion, and food manufacturing, across the USA. Draw on structural equation modelling, QMP was disclosed to significantly amends innovative performance (through KSB and QMC) and operational performance (through KSB). Nevertheless, the path conjoining QMP to operational performance via QMC was statistically inconsequential, exposing QMC's stronger function in driving innovations over routine operations. The outcomes deliver empirical evidence for SMEs in polluting sectors to deliberately allocate resources: KSB advances the entire performance elements, while QMC investments generate greater returns for innovations. These novel comprehensions help manufacturers balance operational efficiency with sustainability-driven innovations.

Keywords: knowledge sharing; firm performance; quality management; supply chain; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; USA.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.152493

International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies, 2026 Vol.17 No.1, pp.20 - 48

Received: 19 Apr 2024
Accepted: 22 Jul 2025
Published online: 23 Mar 2026 *

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