Factors that Influence the Perceptions of the Obstacles to Innovation in the Context of a Developing Country, Case of Ecuador

Abstract

Currently, innovation has become a key factor for the development of a country and for each of the companies that comprise it, and it is essential to mention the individual development of the human beings themselves, who constantly seek to generate changes and adapt to the current context as a requirement of globalization. Nowadays, we can find a large number of goods and services that adapt to our needs in any part of the world without having to move from our home; and despite being a great advantage, this situation is a direct threat to business competitiveness. (Madero and Barboza 2015). This research aims to analyze the factors that influence the perception of obstacles to innovation, why some companies perceive more, or fewer obstacles and which sectors of economic activity have more difficulties in innovating. The research findings reveal the main characteristics that influence the perception of obstacles to innovation as it is; age of the company, business cooperation, size and sector to which the industry belongs.