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MATERIALS 51
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small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—often face when and industry consultation, and are intended to facilitate the
attempting to adopt TQM and circular design practices. To smoother adoption of sustainable practices, particularly among
address these issues and enhance the practical relevance resource-constrained firms. By addressing real-world barriers,
of this study, we propose the following feasible strategies: this research contributes not only theoretical insight but also

actionable frameworks for industry transformation.
Challenge 1: High Initial Investment Costs
Implementing quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) Summary of Key Findings through the Study
and upgrading production lines for circular design often This study presented a triadic integration model that combined
require significant upfront capital, including costs for training, (1) repurposed wood-pellet-based composites, (2) smart
equipment, and certification. furniture design enabled by IoT, and (3) TQM as a unifying
operational framework.
Proposed Strategy: • Material Layer: Pellet-derived WPCs.
We must establish shared resource platforms through industry • Technology Layer: Smart embedded modules.

associations or local government programs to provide SMEs • Quality Layer: TQM practices (e.g., PDCA, SPC).
with access to subsidised equipment, open-source design
templates, and consultancy support. Key insights include the following:
• Material Feasibility: While raw wood pellets are unsuitable
Challenge 2: Lack of TQM Training and Expertise for structural use, they can be effectively reprocessed into
Many SMEs lack internal capacity or expertise to initiate TQM WPCs applicable to non-load-bearing furniture components.
implementation, resulting in inconsistent quality control and • Smart Integration: The embedding of sensors, charging

difficulty sustaining improvements. systems, and connectivity modules requires material
stability, modularity, and precision—conditions achievable
Proposed Strategy: through WPC-based manufacturing and quality controls.
We must develop modular training materials and online certification • TQM as an Enabler: Through PDCA cycles, customer
programs tailored to the furniture industry, enabling flexible, feedback loops, and standardised process control, TQM
low-cost capacity building for frontline staff and managers. supports continuous improvement in product durability,
performance, and sustainability alignment.
Challenge 3: Disruption to Existing Production Models
Transitioning to circular design may disrupt traditional linear This integrated model illustrates how sustainability-driven

workflows, including procurement, manufacturing, and post-sale material innovation can be scaled into market-ready smart
services. This often creates resistance among established teams. products, provided that appropriate quality frameworks and
circular design principles are observed.
Proposed Strategy: To further illustrate the dynamic interaction between smart
We must promote pilot-scale demonstration projects that material integration and operational quality control, this diagram
showcase the feasibility and benefits of circular approaches. presents a conceptual framework linking the key elements of
Success stories can reduce psychological barriers and guide this triadic innovation system).

gradual integration with existing operations. The process begins with the selection and application of
These strategies are grounded in both empirical observation modular material components, such as reprocessed WPC