DR SHAIBU, Ogwuche Gabriel1 Ameh OKPE2 DR Chinwe C. EBENEZER-NWOKEJI3 & DR NTAMU E. Abua4
1, 2 Department of Business Education, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.
Gabbyacademia123@gmail.com vameh6589@gmail.com 08065715075, 08062551060
3 Department of Office Technology and Management, Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma
4Institute of Health Science Research and Administration, Obudu, Cross Rivers State, Nigeria
Abstract
Business re-engineering has emerged as a strategic approach for improving organizational efficiency and competitiveness in modern business environments. However, the adoption and effective implementation of business re-engineering strategies among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Imo State, Nigeria remain limited. This study examines the influence of business re-engineering strategies on the growth and sustainability of SMEs, with specific focus on process optimization and technological integration. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 232 respondents comprising SME owners, managers, and operational staff in Owerri, Imo State using a structured questionnaire titled Business Re-Engineering Strategies and SME Growth Questionnaire (BRESGQ), validated with a reliability coefficient of 0.91. Data were analyzed using Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that process optimization has a strong positive and significant relationship with SME growth, while technological integration also significantly enhances business performance, profitability, and market competitiveness. The study concludes that effective implementation of business re-engineering strategies is a critical driver of SME growth and sustainability in Imo State. It is recommended that SMEs prioritize continuous process improvement and invest in relevant digital technologies to strengthen operational efficiency and long-term competitiveness.
Keywords: Business re-engineering, process optimization, technological integration, sme growth, organizational efficiency