Análisis de la gestión de calidad en la competitividad de las Pymes en Azogues-Ecuador.

Abstract

This study will analyze how quality management affects the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the canton of Azogues, Ecuador. It begins with the acknowledgment that many of these organizations face limitations in resources, lack of knowledge of quality standards, and resistance to change, which compromises their performance and sustainability. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional, and non-experimental approach, a structured survey will be applied to a sample of 140 SMEs registered in the local Chamber of Commerce. The analysis will be conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM), which will allow the identification of causal links between leadership, continuous improvement, customer perception, organizational performance, and financial results. The theoretical framework will be based on approaches such as the resource-based view, competitive advantage, and total quality management. The findings are expected to guide business managers in strategic decision-making aimed at strengthening their competitive positioning, integrating quality management tools as a core element of innovation and customer loyalty in dynamic and demanding contexts. Keywords: quality, competitiveness, SMEs, performance, leadership.