• International Journal of Quality Innovation
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• v.5 no.2
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• pp.89-105
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• 2004

Many researchers and practitioners have acknowledged the need to investigate the relationships amongst various criteria of implementing total quality management (TQM) in small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMMEs). There is a need to have practical research methodologies that take cognisance of the peculiarities of SMMEs and impact on their quality management practices in developing countries. This paper presents the theoretical foundation of a proposed Generative Research Methodology and configures the specification of a TQM implementation framework in SMMEs. The methodology combines rigorous research approaches, builds theory based on the dynamics of the environment and the firms' characteristics and incorporates various TQM criteria into the design of the framework. It synchronises inductive and deductive research methods in three phases and uses various means to acquire empirical evidence and examine the dependent and independent variables of TQM implementation. It is anticipated that the methodology could help SMMEs to develop, analyse and evaluate the framework for attaining quality performance goals.

• Asian Journal of Business Environment
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• v.3 no.2
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• pp.23-29
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• 2013

Purpose - The study investigates the obstacles faced by small business owners (SBOs) in accessing finance in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study aims to identify the causes of inaccessibility to finance for SBOs, investigate the role of government agencies in supporting SBOs, assess the extent to which banks support SMMEs, and suggest solutions to ease the challenge of inaccessibility of finance. Research design, data, methodology -We used a triangulation research design, wherein SMME owners and managers in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality were the target population. We used simple random sampling techniques to select respondents, and conducted in-depth interviews to collect qualitative data. Results - We analyzed quantitative data using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and factor analysis. The qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. The study identifies and discusses the obstacles in accessing finance; the main among which are the lack of collateral security, poor business plans, lack of knowledge, and lack of financial deposit. Conclusions -We urge the banks, government, and government agencies to support the SMME sector, for it remains the economic engine of many African countries and helps in reducing the impact of socio-economic challenges, like unemployment and poverty.

• Journal of Distribution Science
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• v.16 no.3
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• pp.49-57
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• 2018

Purpose - This paper explores the perceptions held by native grocery shop-owners of their foreign counterparts to ascertain if there are lessons to be shared especially regarding operational/survival strategies. Research design, data and methodology - A questionnaire was used to collect data from 121 subjects who were purposively selected. The data was processed and analysed with the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences(SPSS) software. Results - The study found that native South Africans hold the perception that immigrants have operational advantage over them. The study also found that with bulk buying, immigrants' stores stock a larger variety of groceries while their items are sold cheaper. It is also arguable from the standpoint of the findings that immigrant grocery store owners avoid expensive lifestyles which often is common among natives who own informal grocery shops. Conclusions - It is the position of this paper that adopting the strategies utilized by immigrant entrepreneurs, informal grocery shops owned by native South Africans are likely to see an improvement in their township-based grocery stores. A major merit of this study beyond its novelty is its potential to advance learnership and collaboration between immigrant entrepreneurs and their native counterparts.