Competence understanding and use in SMEs: A UK manufacturing perspective

Ran Bhamra, Samir Dani, Tracy Bhamra

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The paper seeks to address the neglected area of competency research that is the understanding and application of core competency concepts within small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). There is little doubt that SME manufacturing organisations can possess core competencies, however it appears from the literature that this issue has not yet been adequately addressed nor is there a clarification with regards to the nature of these competencies. This paper presents the results of an exploratory research study conducted with UK SMEs. The organisations involved were diverse and included a medical products manufacturer, automotive supplier, large metal fabrication and electromechanical capital equipment integrator. This research provides an insight into how competency concepts are perceived and understood amongst SME manufacturing firms and also whether these organisations use competence concepts. The research findings are important for both practitioners and academics, indicating an apparent lack of connectedness between research into competence and its 'real world' understanding and practical use within manufacturing SMEs.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2729-2743
Number of pages15
JournalInternational Journal of Production Research
Volume49
Issue number10
Early online date10 May 2010
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 May 2011
Externally publishedYes

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