ISO 9000 as a route to TQM in small to medium‐sized enterprises: snake or ladder?

Refers to the SME sector, which represents a crucial area of the UK economy, yet there is little research into the use of TQM in this sector. ISO 9000 has been described by many as one of the means by which an organization may embrace TQM. Although there has been some research into the SME experience of ISO 9000, none has considered the standard’s effectiveness as an SME route to TQM. Examines the use of basic TQM principles in a sample of diverse ISO 9000‐ registered SMEs. In addition, an implementation strategy is proposed that is designed to ensure that ISO 9000 implementation facilitates progress towards TQM.