Selected Quality Practices of Small Manufacturers

Abstract

This article examines the criteria used in an independent evaluation program to assess 1690 small manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) that applied to become suppliers for the national mass merchandising market. Success for firms in this study meant getting their product forwarded for buyer review. Results indicated that the forwarded firms had a higher degree of conformity with the buyers' criteria in each of the quality management areas. The majority of the SMEs participating in this program were not prepared to do business at the national level, but the study shows that adopting quality management practices improves a firm s chances of success.

• management
• quality
• supplier

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Stephen C. Jones

Stephen C. Jones is an assistant professor of management at Southwest Missouri State University. He received his doctorate in organizational theory from the University of North Texas. Jones has published in the Journal of Vocational Education Research, the Journal of Business & Entrepreneurship, and the New England Journal of Entrepreneurship. His research interests include small business management and business ethics and social responsibility. He can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].

Tami L. Knotts

Tami L. Knotts is an assistant professor of management at Southwest Missouri State University. She received her D.B.A. in management from Louisiana Tech University. Knotts has published in the Employee Responsibilities and Rights Journal, Psychological Reports, and the New England Journal of Entrepreneurship. Her research interests include small business management and religious involvement in the workplace. Knotts can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].

Karen L. Brown

Karen L. Brown is an assistant professor of management at Southwest Missouri State University. She received her D.B.A. in management from Louisiana Tech University. Brown has published in OMEGA: The International Journal of Management Science, The International Journal of Operations and Production Management, and Project Management Journal. Her research interests include operational performance measures and supply management. Brown can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].