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The Effect of Kaizen on Performance: Evidence from Manufacturing Enterprises in Ghana

Author

Listed:
  • Richmond Atta-Ankomah

    (University of Ghana)

  • Johnson Appiah Kubi

    (University of Ghana)

  • Charles Godfred Ackah

    (University of Ghana)

Abstract

Between 2012 and 2017, a number of manufacturing enterprises of varying sizes in Ghana participated in a programme that trained and guided them to implement Kaizen practices with an objective of improving their productivity and performance. This study sought to evaluate the impact of the programme by mainly using the difference-in-difference method. The results show that the programme led to a positive and significant impact on firm performance, particularly with respect to sales and profits, and for some of the firms, an improvement in labour productivity as well. We found further that whether a firm experienced this impact appears to depend on the size of the firm and the calibre of the consultant who delivered the training. The findings generally suggest that an extensive promotion of Kaizen as a management technique among a broad spectrum of manufacturing enterprises could yield substantial benefits for the enterprises and the national economy.

Suggested Citation

  • Richmond Atta-Ankomah & Johnson Appiah Kubi & Charles Godfred Ackah, 2022. "The Effect of Kaizen on Performance: Evidence from Manufacturing Enterprises in Ghana," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 34(2), pages 1167-1192, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:eurjdr:v:34:y:2022:i:2:d:10.1057_s41287-021-00459-0
    DOI: 10.1057/s41287-021-00459-0
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    References listed on IDEAS

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