**8. Conclusions and recommendations**

#### **8.1 Conclusions**

The chapter revealed a positive relationship between the application of quality standards and improved business performance. It also affirmed the hypothesis that SMMEs are aware of the barriers and challenges affecting the growth of their businesses, which principally stem from non-compliant products and services which do not meet quality requirements. The literature reviewed supported these findings, which also indicated that certified SMMEs are keen to comply with quality standards and improve their performance. Hence they are more successful than their counterparts. Other SMMEs interested in improving their performance can learn from this case and comply with quality standards. Certification of SMMEs can also be viewed as a strategy to improve the operations of the SMMEs, especially when they align their operations with the principle of total quality management. It can add value if other SMMEs can follow suit by registering their business to comply with TQM to improve their performance quality standards in their business operations.

In conclusion, the response to the main research question that emerged showed a relationship between quality standards and positive outcomes. Thus, the hypothesis suggesting that the application of quality standards positively impacts business performance proved to be true.

#### **8.2 Recommendations**

In responding to the critical research question, the research findings confirmed a positive impact of applying standards on the business performance of SMMEs. To deepen the knowledge on the subject matter, recommendations for further study were suggested as follows:

• The government must prioritise accreditation acquisition for SMME development in combating barriers associated with compliance and quality assurance.

*The Impact of Quality Standards on the Business Performance of Small, Medium… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.101366*

