In today’s business environment, standards provide as many benefits for small businesses as they do for larger enterprises. The strategic use of standards is helping small and large businesses alike to significantly improve their annual turnovers. The Guyana Standard Requirements for Good Management Practices for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME’s) (GYS 231:2010) is one of the standards to be considered for small business success in Guyana.
Globally, smaller firms are quickly taking advantage of the benefits of standards, which include easier access of their products and services to the export markets, heightened operational efficiency, established specifications and opportunities for innovation, and increased confidence as customers recognize businesses, products and services conform to standards. With the application of the GMP standard, businesses can demonstrate their ability to consistently meet quality, environment and occupational safety and health requirements.
The GMP standard, as a CARICOM Standard, defines the fundamental requirements to enhance small business performance through continual improvement and the prevention of non-conformity through the application of a simplified management system. It is a simplified version of the popular ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Standard.
The easy-to-implement standard, outlines that for MSMEs to be effective, an atmosphere shall be created to provide focus and positive behavior and it recommends that defined improvement goals and objectives be established. Many local businesses often do not consider these goals and objectives even though they are vital for focus, direction and growth.
The standard requires businesses to have a defined policy, have established planning and control, and have a favourable working environment that conforms to OSH and other stipulated environmental requirements. As the ISO 9001 standard, the National Standard offers a clear definition of the roles, responsibilities and authorities for the implementation of the management system; and records and documents must be controlled. Further, requirements for competence, awareness and training of employees must be addressed.
Other requirements necessary to demonstrate conformity and effectiveness of the MSME management system include those related to measurement, analysis and improvement, which ensure that customers are continually satisfied. Customer satisfaction is crucial for repeated purchases and continuous revenue flow.
Local MSMEs, looking to improve their performance and viability, outside of the ISO Management System Standards, are encouraged to consult the GNBS for Training and Technical Assistance towards conformance to this National Standard.
The GNBS believes that the time has come for smaller businesses to also appreciate the usefulness of standards, which can help to streamline their operations, realize profits, maintain sustainability, and most importantly facilitates wider market access.
Additionally, enterprises can use standards as negotiating tools, as guides to improve quality and customer service, and to reduce operational costs.
Small businesses across Guyana are encouraged to initiate contact with the GNBS now to find out how standards can best address their needs for growth and competitiveness.
For further information, please get in touch with the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0065, 219-0066 or visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org
