Exploring the Role of FMEA in Advancing Continuous Quality Improvement within Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises

Abstract

It is extremely challenging but much sought-after in today's globalization era for continuous improvement of product and process quality, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Earlier researchers have proposed a number of tools and techniques for continuous quality improvement (CQI), some of them include lean manufacturing, six sigma, lean six sigma, auto core tools, etc. Few of them succeed and fewer of them do not, particularly in MSMEs. MSMEs encounter usual problems, different than large organization, which disappointed them in attaining CQI by applying these tools. Even in few of the instances, MSMEs are not even aware about these tools, its advantage and how to apply them. The objective of this paper is to analysis the applications and advantages along with available research on Failure Modes and Effect Analysis (FMEA) with specific focus on continuous quality improvement. Methodology adopts a comprehensive review of literature through well-reputed publications- journals, conference proceedings, research thesis, etc. The paper presents an overview of FMEA, enablers, barriers and advantages, and how it developed into sophisticated methodologies to attain CQI in organizations. The objective of this review paper is not to despise FMEA, instead, its aim is limited to present a positive attitude towards FMEA and CQI.