Chang, Jeffrey Lih-Jen (2000) Exploring the links between business process re-engineering and small and medium-sized enterprises. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

Despite a growing literature on business process re-engineering (BPR) principles and
prospects, there is little empirical research evaluating the success or failure of BPR
initiatives. This is especially so in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) where
the potential for BPR benefit may differ significantly from that in their larger
counterparts.
An examination of the literature on process re-engineering reveals that BPR guidelines
derived from the experiences in large organisations are inadequate for SMEs given the
different characteristics of SMEs in terms of size, structure, culture, resources and
technology. The objective of this research is to develop an appropriate basis of BPR
guidelines for SMEs. A pluralistic research method is used due to the exploratory nature
of the study and the absence of existing rigorous research in the area. This consists of a
questionnaire survey of 116 Taiwan-based SMEs, followed by case studies of eight
chosen organisations. The findings from the survey enable the researcher to modify the
proposed framework of BPR implementing for SMEs, and the case studies explore the
factors that facilitate/inhibit BPR success in SMEs in greater detail.
The study reveals an opportunity for SMEs to benefit from BPR efforts, although their
BPR initiatives are mainly inter-functional. Re-engineering in SMEs is often a response
to positive trends, and is largely dependent upon the owner-manager's perceived
benefits and risk-taking attitudes. A strategic vision as well as sound external relations
may leverage SMEs' re-engineering efforts to higher business integration, while a lack
of financial support and non-standardised IS infrastructure may restrict SMEs' BPR
initiatives to functional areas. Employee empowerment, dedication to R&D, and
innovative use of IT are intertwined and significantly related to BPR success. The study
concludes by outlining the principles of BPR guidelines for SMEs based on a modified
framework detailing the BPR environment in SMEs. These include a holistic and
strategic view towards BPR, the roles of owner-managers and employees, change
issues, and implementing BPR as a process change project.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Reengineering (Management), Small business, Small business -- Taiwan -- Case studies
Official Date:	November 2000
Dates:	Date Event November 2000 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Warwick Business School
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Powell, Philip ; Levy, Margi
Extent:	[xvi], 306, [62] leaves
Language:	eng
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/4026

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