and that between manufacturing strategy and performance.
Ward and Duray [43], using path analysis,
examine the link between competitive
environment, competitive strategy, manufacturing
strategy, and performance in four stages of relationships.
The framework and methodology used
in our study replicates that used by Ward and Duray
[43], however, we limit its scope by focusing on
the relationships between competitive strategy (i.e.
cost leadership and differentiation), TQM as operational
strategy or organizational practices, and
organizational performance in terms of quality
and innovation. The research framework also
concurs with the concept of ‘‘fit as mediation’’
proposed by Venkatraman [44]. While Venkatraman
s model follows the concept of the classical
industrial organization economic paradigm (environment strategy performance),
this study
uses a model of strategy practices performance
structural relationship.