Journal of Emerging Trends in Economics and Management Sciences: Home

Abstract:
This paper investigated the strategic focus of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMSEs) in Nigeria particularly those involved in manufacturing and service providers. Seventy-two (72) SMSEs were surveyed in Delta state. Specifically, their business and product/service strategies were reviewed in terms of their sources and strengths. Because the contingency table was a 2?2 matric, the Yates Correction method was employed to the Chi-square (?2) statistical tool to test the validity of the proposition raised in this paper. The study delineated from previous work by focusing on the internal capabilities of SMSEs rather than other external limiting variables such as finance and lack of government intervention policies. The findings suggested that SMSEs in Nigeria do not adopt more emergent strategies than planned but, they react to issues and challenges as they occur rather than following a coordinated or planned patterned behavior (PPB). Major breakthroughs were experienced when they adopted emergent strategies but in spite of the absence of a formalized way of operation, SMSEs do not lack strategic focus. Although, they are yet to fully align their business operations to capture the essence of their strategies. The study is significant in exposing grey areas in the management of SMSEs. It provided pertinent and contemporary solutions towards addressing the challenges faced by managers in every organization especially in this era of strategic management.

Keywords: SMSEs, strategy, emergent, economic growth, planned.

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