This study compared the quality practices ofvery small and small firms in the human resources area. Nypotheses relating to empowerment, work teams, and traim'ng were developed and tested. An analysis revealed that there was a significant difference in empowerment practices between the two groups offirms, but no significant differences in team utilization or employee training. profitability correlations divulged that team usage and certain aspects of employee training could improve profitability, depending on the size of the firm.