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Article
Publication date: 8 October 2018

Manjeet Kharub, Rahul S. Mor and Rajiv Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to examine the cost leadership competitive strategy’s (CLCS) impact on firm performances and the mediating role of quality management (QM) practices…

8386

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the cost leadership competitive strategy’s (CLCS) impact on firm performances and the mediating role of quality management (QM) practices in the context of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

A structures questionnaire data collected from 245 ISO 9000 certified MSMEs in India (65.1 per cent of response rate) have been utilised to understand the CLCS’s impact on firm performances. In the first step, the data adequacy tests were performed to check the reliability and validity of the questionnaire and survey data. After that, the partial mediating model (direct, indirect and total effect) along with structural equation modelling approach was employed to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The study results revealed that no direct relationship exists between the CLCS and firm performances (0.12<β<0.13; p>0.05); however, QM practices entirely mediated their relationship (β=0.73, p<0.01). Among eight model parameters, with highest total effects on product quality improvement (β=0.6264) and process improvement (β=0.6028), the continuous improvement secured the rank 1, followed by information and analysis (β=0.2334) and supplier management (0.1839), respectively, at p<0.05. Based on the empirical results, it can be concluded that the continuous improvement via proper information and data analysis is the key to achieve CLCS’s goal in the MSMEs.

Research limitations/implications

The study results’ generalisation towards the large organisations is limited. The survey result findings applicability to other developing countries should also be treated with caution because the Indian Government subsidised the MSMEs selected for this study. The study results will help managers in implementing CLCS at the organisational level. The successful implementation will facilitate a competitive advantage in the local market and will motivate them to think globally.

Originality/value

The research observation and findings are expected to contribute to the strategic management in manufacturing industries. The study also confirms the existence of strategic management in MSMEs in a developing country. Furthermore, the major contribution is to understand the mediating role of QM practices, especially continuous improvement effect on the relationship between CLCS and firm performances in a developing country. The results indicated that the CLCS is only possible when the managers in the manufacturing sectors emphasis on the QM practices in their firms.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 30 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

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Article
Publication date: 1 October 2018

Manjeet Kharub, Shah Limon and Rajiv Kumar Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the quality tool’s impact on the effectiveness of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)-based food safety…

1460

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the quality tool’s impact on the effectiveness of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)-based food safety system and correlation studies between HACCP effectiveness and business performance in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 116 survey responses of prominent food and pharmaceutical firms are used to fulfil the aim of this study. The principal component analysis (PCA) method was applied to classify quality tools into a finite number of groups. Further, multiple regression methods are employed to investigate the correlation between HACCP effectiveness and firm’s performance indicators.

Findings

Quality tools are classified into three categories on the basis of their application by using the PCA method: quality tools for hazard identification, quality tools for hazard analysis (QTHA) and quality tools for hazard control. The regression analysis revealed that QTHA has a substantial impact on HACCP objectives (hazard identification, hazard assessment and hazard control). Additionally, the results suggest that the successful implementation of HACCP-based food safety system also delivers a direct influence on the operational and financial performance of the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing body of HACCP knowledge by providing a framework supported by an empirical case study. The case study clustered quality tools into three broad categories related to their application of a HACCP project. Study results can guide and motivate managers to use quality tools with the aim of successful implantation of the HACCP-based food safety system, especially in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 35 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 3 April 2018

Manjeet Kharub and Rajiv Kumar Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between latent variables, i.e. human resource management (HRM) effectiveness, quality cost (QC), and firm performance (FP…

396

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between latent variables, i.e. human resource management (HRM) effectiveness, quality cost (QC), and firm performance (FP) for the successful implementation of quality management (QM) practices in micro, small and medium enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The data analysis is accomplished in three steps: in the first step, factor analysis was conducted to extract the latent variables representing key QM practices. In the second step, a descriptive analysis (cross-tabulation) was performed to examine the current situation and association between key QM variables and firm size. In the third step, to test the research hypotheses based on latent constructs, structural equation modelling (SEM) has been used.

Findings

The percent point score shows that there are substantial improvements in all organisational aspects after successful implementation of QM practices. The χ2-test revealed that only three domains namely employee participation, recruitment and retaining and supplier relationship are having a significant variation with respect to the firm size. The SEM results show that HRM effectiveness has a direct and positive relationship with FP, whereas QC has a negative association with HRM effectiveness and FP.

Originality/value

Managers will know which aspect they must consider seeing as an indicator of QM practice in their company(s). Out of the three identified latent constructs first will help to create an efficient human capital, whereas the second will help for addressing extra cost due to poor quality. Finally, the third latent variable will show the effectiveness of these two and will assist in evaluating firm’s performance.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 35 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 20 March 2017

Manjeet Kharub and Rajiv Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to measure and analyze the competitive advantage of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) based upon the Porter’s diamond framework. The major…

13394

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure and analyze the competitive advantage of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) based upon the Porter’s diamond framework. The major objective is to contribute toward better understanding of various determinants of the diamond model in context within Indian MSMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Extent review of the literature has been done to identify various critical factors contributing to developing a competitive advantage. Exploratory factor analysis and internal consistency tests were performed to verify scales validity and reliability of measuring instrument (questionnaire). In research design, a case study approach has been used, in which MSMEs operating in the pharmaceutical, electrical and electronics, automobile, food and textile sectors were considered.

Findings

Study findings indicate that the pharmaceutical sector is more competitive followed by food (112.491) as revealed by the high value of surface area i.e. 150.931. The competitiveness among MSME sectors is mostly affected by demand conditions followed by firm strategy, structure and rivalry. Moreover, the score of diamond axes indicates significant difference with respect to determinants. For instance, in the textile sector, the determinants such as factor conditions and related and supporting industries scored low, for example, 4.710 and 4.280, respectively, which indicates it needs to be strengthened as this sector stands at last position with minimum surface area, for example, 67.398.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the time and resource constraints, this study was conducted in MSMEs situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India, and thus generalizations of results are rather limited.

Practical implications

This study is one of the original being undertaken by authors which helps to underline the importance of various determinants which may help the MSME units to improve competitiveness by implementing effective competitive strategies. The study could be extended to other regions of the country.

Originality/value

This study is a result of extended research on competitiveness and provides an instrument to measure firm ability to be competitive. CEO’s, managers and policy makers from industries as well as government will be able to use this to evaluate their competitive positioning and identify key problem areas which required improvements.

Details

Competitiveness Review: An International Business Journal, vol. 27 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1059-5422

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Article
Publication date: 5 January 2021

Rajiv Kumar Sharma

As we move up in the supply chain (SC) from retailer to supplier, amplification in the fluctuation of order increased. To minimize this amplification, understanding of key…

520

Abstract

Purpose

As we move up in the supply chain (SC) from retailer to supplier, amplification in the fluctuation of order increased. To minimize this amplification, understanding of key decision variables which affects the SC is essential. So, in the present work the authors developed a novel approach to examine the structural dependencies among variables responsible for perfect order fulfillment (POF).

Design/methodology/approach

Interpretive structural modeling approach has been used to model the structural relationship among the key SC variables. Further, to study the driver-dependence dynamics among variables MICMAC analysis has been used. In the second phase, the influence of driver variables on the POF is investigated by using fuzzy logic.

Findings

From the results, it is observed that the variables’ delivery time, number of echelons, data accuracy and information sharing have high driving power which may help the organizations to meet challenges offered by POF. The results showed that for POF is said to be at optimum level when the number of echelons should be low and data accuracy should be high, and information sharing among all partners should also be very high.

Research limitations/implications

Research on SC is classified into three categories, i.e. operational, design and strategic. In the present study authors discussed strategic variables responsible for POF which is the main limitation of the study. The work can be extended by including operational and design variables.

Practical implications

POF in SC network is affected by various variables. The in-depth understanding of contextual association among the variables helps the managers to improve the efficiency of the SC and reduce the bullwhip effect across the downstream SC network.

Originality/value

The study presents a hybrid approach to analyze the key POF dimensions, i.e. forecasting, number of echelons, information sharing, cycle time and delivery time, critical to POF in downstream SC network by developing various case settings.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 38 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 21 January 2025

Love Kumar and Rajiv Kumar Sharma

In the digital transformation era, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India face both opportunities and challenges in adopting Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies. To…

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Abstract

Purpose

In the digital transformation era, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India face both opportunities and challenges in adopting Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies. To ensure successful I4.0 implementation, the study aims to develop a digital readiness assessment model based on stakeholders’ perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a mixed-method framework to develop a comprehensive maturity model to assess the digital readiness of SMEs. The framework uses systematic literature review to comprehend I4.0 solution dimensions, followed by empirical validation of dimensions through a questionnaire survey and hypothesis formulation.

Findings

The digital readiness model is applied to companies working in four SME sectors, namely, automobile, machinery and equipment, pharmaceutical and agriculture. The findings highlight the necessity for sector-specific strategies to enhance digital capabilities, addressing unique challenges and leveraging opportunities for growth.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed readiness assessment model, developed based on the 14 solution dimensions, 41 prerequisites and six levels, enables the respondents in SMEs to make factual assessments of their digital readiness and initiate efforts toward successful I4.0 implementation.

Originality/value

This research uniquely combines expert insights, multi-dimensional assessment and rigorous statistical validation to provide a robust conceptual framework for SMEs to navigate their digital transformation journey effectively.

Details

Business Process Management Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-7154

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Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Love Kumar and Rajiv Kumar Sharma

In the context of promoting sustainable development in SMEs, the present study aims to investigate the relationship among solution dimensions based on the Industry 4.0 (I4.0…

160

Abstract

Purpose

In the context of promoting sustainable development in SMEs, the present study aims to investigate the relationship among solution dimensions based on the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) concept.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a comprehensive methodology that includes a systematic literature review, workshop, grounded theory and interpretive structural modeling. Various dimensions concerning I4.0 sustainability are tested and evaluated using a questionnaire design followed by hypothesis formulation. Further, grounded theory is used to extract the key solution dimensions that capture the essence of I4.0 implementation in SMEs. Finally, the solution dimensions for I4.0 sustainability are modeled using the ISM approach to understand the structural interdependencies among them, and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Applied to a Classification (MICMAC) analysis is done to understand the driving and dependence power among these dimensions.

Findings

The study identified 14 solution dimensions for the implementation of I4.0 in SMEs for sustainable development. Out of the 14 solution dimensions, human resource training programs (D4) appear at level 11, followed by top management commitment (D1), strategic collaborations (D3) and coordination among key stakeholders (D5) at level 2 in the hierarchical interpretive structural modeling (ISM) model. Also, these dimensions have an effect size of more than 0.50 which indicates a substantial correlation between the sustainability dimensions and Industry 4.0 implementation in SMEs.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the overall goal of fostering sustainability within the SME sector, which can pave the way for various stakeholders for the successful implementation of I4.0 sustainable solution dimensions.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

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Article
Publication date: 29 May 2007

Rajiv Kumar Sharma, Dinesh Kumar and Pradeep Kumar

The aim of this paper is to permit system reliability analysts/managers/practitioners/engineers to analyse system failure behaviour more consistently and plan suitable maintenance…

2515

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to permit system reliability analysts/managers/practitioners/engineers to analyse system failure behaviour more consistently and plan suitable maintenance actions accordingly.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopted three important tools, namely, root cause analysis (RCA), failure mode effect analysis (FMEA), and non‐homogeneous Poisson point process (NHPPP), to build an integrated and helpful framework, able to facilitate the maintenance managers in decision making. The factors contributing to system unreliability were analysed using RCA and FMEA. The failure data related to the components are modelled using NHPPP models and are used to optimise maintenance decisions (repair or replacements) based on cost dimensions.

Findings

The paper finds that the in‐depth analysis of a system using RCA and FMEA helps to create a knowledge base to deal with problems related to process/product unreliability. From the results it is observed that NHPPP models adequately analyse time‐dependent rate of occurrence of failures. Thus, assisting the maintenance analyst in development of suitable maintenance strategy by properly understanding the mechanism of failure (through modeling of failure data); adopting adequate aging management actions (such as predictive or periodic testing) to predict or detect the degradation of components; and performing cost analysis.

Originality/value

The contemporaneous adoption of the three proposed techniques for failure analysis will help system reliability engineers/managers/practitioners not only to understand the failure behaviour of component(s) in the system, but also to plan/adapt suitable maintenance practices to improve system reliability and availability.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 24 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 30 March 2010

Rajiv Kumar Sharma and Pooja Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to permit the system reliability analysts/managers/engineers to model, analyze and predict the behavior of industrial systems in a more realistic and…

3201

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to permit the system reliability analysts/managers/engineers to model, analyze and predict the behavior of industrial systems in a more realistic and consistent manner and plan suitable maintenance strategies accordingly.

Design/methodology/approach

Root cause analysis (RCA), failure mode effect analysis (FMEA) and fuzzy methodology (FM) have been used by the authors to build an integrated framework, to facilitate the reliability/system analysts in maintenance planning. The factors contributing to system unreliability were analyzed using RCA and FMEA. The uncertainty related to performance of system is modeled using fuzzy synthesis of information.

Findings

The in‐depth analysis of system is carried out using RCA and FMEA. The discrepancies associated with the traditional procedure of risk ranking in FMEA are modeled using decision making system based on fuzzy methodology. Further, to cope up with imprecise, uncertain and subjective information related to system performance, the system behavior is quantified by fuzzy synthesis of information.

Originality/value

The complementary adoption of the techniques as discussed in the study will help the maintenance engineers/managers/practitioners to plan/adapt suitable maintenance practices to improve system reliability and maintainability aspects after understanding the failure behavior of component(s) in the system.

Details

Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2511

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Article
Publication date: 11 November 2014

Rajiv Sharma and Manjeet Kharub

The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework which connects theory with straightforward application of statistical process control (SPC) in discovering and…

1035

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework which connects theory with straightforward application of statistical process control (SPC) in discovering and analyzing causes of variation to eliminate quality problems, which not only helps small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to improve their processes but also helps to attain competitive positioning.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on theory and methodological framework, an experimental study has been presented. Use of histograms, X (bar) and R control charts and process capability plots and cause-and-effect diagrams have been made to analyse the assignable causes. A case from an SME engaged in machining of automotive parts is investigated.

Findings

The results demonstrate the effectiveness of SPC in evaluating and eliminating quality problems. The machine capability (CP) and the process capability (CPk) values are also obtained to know inherent variation in the process. If these quality tools are applied with management support and apt knowledge, attained through proper training and motivation, then in this cut-throat competitive world, SMEs can establish their market position by enhancing the quality and productivity of their products/processes.

Practical limitations/implications

From the study, the authors conclude that application of SPC requires thorough preparation, management commitment and human resource management through proper training, teamwork and motivation embedded with a sound measurement and control system.

Originality/value

The present study bridges the gap between theory and practice by developing a conceptual framework and providing a practical support by illustrating a case from an SME engaged in machining of automotive parts.

Details

Measuring Business Excellence, vol. 18 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1368-3047

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