Comparing Quality and Business Improvement Methodologies for Collaborative Working in the Product Development Process of SMEs

Andrew Grantham, Jeffrey Readman

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceeding with ISSN or ISBNConference contribution with ISSN or ISBNpeer-review

Abstract

This paper makes the case that of all of the improvement methodologies used in businesses, continuous improvement can overcome the problem of ossification in the context of new product development where the ability to engage in exploitation and exploration may be a prerequisite for business success in the future. In particular, indicators such as linking strategic objectives to improvement activity and degrees of integration of systems within and between firms have a close fit with the cultural dimension of continuous improvement, something which is largely absent from top down, output focused TQM and Lean programmes. The case is made on the basis of a review of a variety of literatures including those on TQM, Lean, continuous innovation, the extended manufacturing enterprise and bootlegging.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCI Net 2005
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2005
EventCI Net - Brighton, UK
Duration: 1 Sept 2005 → …

Conference

ConferenceCI Net
Period1/09/05 → …

Bibliographical note

© CINet 2005

Keywords

  • Continuous Improvement
  • Total Quality Management
  • Lean Management
  • CENTRIM

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