Maximizing Small Business In Nigeria Through The Application Of Lean Principles

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume V, Issue XII, December 2021 | ISSN 2454–6186

Maximizing Small Business In Nigeria Through The Application Of Lean Principles

Ajike, Ada Kalu1, Ejike, Ifeyinwa Justina², Chukwujama, Ngozi Comfort³.
^1,3Department of Business Administration, Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra

State
²Department of Management, Faculty of Business Administration, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.

ABSTRACT:

This study was on Maximizing Small Businesses in Nigeria through the application of Lean Principles with special reference to small sized printing press in Enugu State. The study took a critical look at growth trend among small businesses in terms of their survival strategy, potentials and contributions to industrial development against the backdrop of government intervention programs on small and medium enterprises. The study explored the impact of lean principles in terms of value addition and continuous improvement of work process for the elimination of operational wastes in other to achieve operational efficiency among small businesses in Nigeria. The study adopted a survey design using forty small sized printing businesses in Enugu State. Census sampling method was used. The hypotheses were tested using Pearson’s Moment Correlation Coefficient. The study concluded that wastes reduction principles embedded in lean management are necessary for the efficiency and sustainability of all businesses. The study then recommended that small businesses should apply more diligence in the allocation of operational activities to enhance improvement; that staff of small businesses should be given opportunity to contribute ideas in finding a solution when problems arise and create a platform for knowledge and skill sharing within the workplace.

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study
The history of industrial growth in developed and developing countries has shown that SMEs are the driving force of industrial development due to their small initial capital requirement and their contributions to output, employment and growth (Diejomaoh, 1980). The role of SMEs is dynamic, accelerating output, employment opportunities, and enhancing regional economic balance through the development of local technology, diffusion of management skill and stimulation of indigenous entrepreneurship (Adenuga, et al as cited in Ajike & Nwakoby, 2017).

Read More