Continuous Improvement in an Emerging Market: Findings from Vietnam

Abstract

This study investigates the factors underpinning continuous improvement (CI) effectiveness in Vietnam. Based on survey data collected from 490 participants plus interviews and discussions with 130 business professionals with extensive knowledge of Vietnam, it identifies top management commitment as a major factor critical to the success of CI in that country. In addition, the paper highlights change agent participation as well as management and employee development as critical in facilitating CI practices in Vietnamese companies. Reward systems – though common in Vietnam – did not affect CI outcomes in the study. The reasons for this apparent anomaly need further research.