IDENTIFICATION OF STRENGTH AND WEAKNESSES OF INDIAN MANUFACTURING SMES USING AHP APPROACH

This paper empirically determines the extent to which the criteria of total quality management (TQM) are achieved in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Vidharbha region of state Maharashtra in India. These criteria represent the attributes of TQM and as such one can equate these to the benefits of TQM that are achieved in SME. In addition, weaknesses are highlighted to which scarce resources could be parsimoniously allocated. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology is used to determine the percent weightings of five categories of performance criteria that were identified via a review of quality management literature. An empirical analysis of the criteria of each stage using the AHP methodology and the expert opinion of the top management of SMEs operating in Vidharbha region are used to evaluate the percent weightings of the criteria that are synonymous with TQM implementation The findings of this study suggest that the SMEs were focused on UCN, but were least able to effectively determine their strategic direction. In addition, the potential benefits that could be derived from TQM criteria were lacking in the areas of EUD. Having compliance requirements that deal directly with these areas would help SMEs align their quality management practices with quality culture and strategic process changes towards TQM.