Capital intelectual y gestión de innovación: Pequeñas y medianas empresas de cuero y calzado en Tungurahua–Ecuador

Abstract

The interrelation between innovation and intellectual capital is probably one of the most complex issues from the perspective of South America, because the new technological paradigm poses extraordinary challenges for the region. This research aims to determine the relationship between intellectual capital and innovation management in small and medium leather and footwear companies in Tungurahua-Ecuador. The research is of a non-experimental type, because it studies phenomena in their natural state to later analyze and explain them; mixed, with an emphasis on the qualitative approach, with a sample of 45 companies. The results show a low level of job satisfaction and stability in the analysis of human capital; In addition, in innovation there is a need for training in topics such as production, process engineering, shoe costs, basic modeling, biomechanics in footwear, design and style. In conclusion, contributions were generated in technology and skills development, identifying areas in which SMEs should pay attention to be productive, since it is not yet possible to change the productive matrix in these businesses, since there is no capacity to exports and research and innovation in science and knowledge management is insufficient.