Employee factors influencing product quality within manufacturing at Skyblu Technologies (Pty) Ltd. Durban

Abstract

The electronic goods manufacturing sector in South Africa is an extremely competitive environment with global price parity adding to the difficulty in positioning organisations in a favourable competitive position. Product quality is the minimum expectation from customers that havenumerous product range options to select from. The research is based on SkyBlu Technologies (Pty) Ltd, based in Mount Edgecombe, Durban, South Africa, an electronics contract manufacturing facility specialising in the design and manufacture of digital satellite decoders, television sets and consumer electronics. Employee behaviour influences the culture of an organisation that ultimately contributes to the level of product quality. The aim of this study was to ascertain employee factors that influence product quality and the objectives were to ascertain employees’ understandings of quality, to ascertain if the employees understand their job specific quality requirements and to ascertain if quality objectives are clearly defined. A quantitative research approach was utilised to gather and analyse the data. A crosssectional survey was conducted, with data collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed to extract the necessary information to achieve the study's objectives. The research study's findings show that employees at SkyBlu Technologies generally have positive perceptions of product quality, expressing strong support for the company's quality assurance processes, work instructions, and leadership. However, the results also identify areas for improvement, specifically regarding the availability and upkeep of resources, the integration of technology, and the balancing of production demands with quality standards. By addressing these issues, SkyBlu Technologies can further improve its product quality and foster a work environment that encourages continuous product enhancement. Recommendations were made to address the findings of this research, to close the gap and place the organisation in a more strategic competitive position. The research has contributed knowledge by extending the understanding of the influence of employee behaviour on product quality. This research can be applied to other manufacturing organisations to enhance employee contribution to product quality.