In the knowledge-based economy knowledge and skills are becoming more and more significant for the success of companies. This applies also to firms from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) sector. As large companies in many cases posses special divisions devoted to trainings, they normally have no problems with updating the knowledge and skills of their employees. The situation is different with regard to SMEs, which often...

This article describes the considerations for the implementation of the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology in small and medium-sized enterprises. Pilot research was conducted in Polish and French SMEs (nine Polish and nine French enterprises from the service and production sectors) referring to the context of the implementation and application of the Lean Six Sigma concept. The studies led to the identification of the motives, needs,...

Nowadays, sources of competitive advantage and economic development are sought in the sphere of innovation. They are at the centre of interest of representatives of the world of politics, science, and business. Moreover, they have been incorporated into governmental and international strategic development programmes. This article attempts to characterize and evaluate cooperation in creating innovation in small and medium-sized...

The chapter characterises and compares SMEs in Visegrad Countries and their international behaviours.