International Journal of Scientific and Management Research

The Transformative Influence of Total Quality Management on the Performance of Manufacturing Small Businesses in Nigeria

Babalola, Olanrewaju Emmanuel
College of Business Administration, University of Nebraska Omaha, United States
DOI – http://doi.org/10.37502/IJSMR.2025.81103

Abstract

This study examines the transformative role of Total Quality Management (TQM) on the performance of manufacturing small businesses in Ogun State, Nigeria, addressing a critical gap in developing world literature. Adopting a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 113 employees across three major firms using a structured questionnaire and analyzed via linear regression. Results reveal that participative management is strongly linked to improved operational performance, while relationship marketing exerts the most significant positive effect on stakeholder satisfaction. Quality education notably enhances organizational efficiency, but process management demonstrates only a marginal, statistically insignificant influence on innovation. These findings highlight the need for manufacturing firms to prioritize employee involvement, nurture stakeholder relationships, and invest in targeted staff training for sustainable organizational transformation. The research advances empirical understanding of TQM’s impact within a developing economy context and provides actionable recommendations for practitioners and policymakers seeking to strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Limitations include a constrained sample size and regional coverage, with future studies recommended in service sectors and broader geographic contexts for comprehensive insight.

Keywords: Total Quality Management; Small Businesses, Performance; Participative Management; Relationship Marketing; Process Management; Quality Education; Manufacturing Firms

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