Background of the Study
Total Quality Management (TQM) is a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of processes, products, and services through continuous improvement, employee involvement, and customer satisfaction. TQM practices have been widely adopted in large organizations globally, and recent studies have shown their growing relevance in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies (Akinboade & Adebayo, 2024). In Lagos, one of Nigeria’s largest commercial hubs, SMEs represent a significant portion of the economy, operating across diverse sectors such as retail, manufacturing, and services. For these businesses, maintaining high-quality standards is essential to staying competitive, improving customer satisfaction, and ensuring long-term sustainability. However, many SMEs in Lagos face resource constraints that make it difficult to adopt formal TQM practices. This study aims to examine the extent to which TQM practices are implemented in Lagos-based SMEs and evaluate their impact on business performance.
Statement of the Problem
Although TQM has been shown to improve quality and operational performance in larger organizations, the adoption and effectiveness of TQM practices in Lagos-based SMEs are under-researched. Many SMEs in the region are challenged by limited financial resources, lack of skilled personnel, and operational inefficiencies. This study will explore how Lagos-based SMEs are implementing TQM and the resulting impact on their quality of products and services, operational performance, and competitiveness in the market.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on SMEs in Lagos, evaluating their adoption and implementation of TQM practices. Data will be gathered through surveys and interviews with SME owners and managers. Limitations include potential biases in self-reporting and the challenge of accessing SMEs that may not have formalized TQM practices.
Definitions of Terms
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