La innovación tecnológica y de procesos en el desempeño económico de las empresas familiares dedicadas al cultivo de banano en la provincia de El Oro.

Abstract

This work highlights the importance of technology and innovation in family banana businesses in El Oro, Ecuador, to improve their competitiveness and economic performance. Questions are raised about technology adoption, its economic impact and the obstacles faced. The lack of research in this field is a problem that could limit growth and competitiveness. Research is warranted to understand the current state, identify economic benefits, and promote local development. A mixed survey and interview approach is proposed to collect data and provide recommendations. The development of the project analyzes the transformation of banana cultivation through technological innovation. Crucial to increasing efficiency and sustainability, this innovation ranges from improvements in growing methods to distribution. Advances include genetic resistance to diseases, pest control using drones and pheromones, and automated harvesting. However, family banana businesses face challenges such as resistance to change, lack of financial resources, and adaptation of technology to local conditions. Overcoming these challenges requires strategies that encourage openness to change and collaboration with external institutions. This is addressed using a methodology from the project on technological adoption in family banana businesses in El Oro. The research is defined as descriptive and exploratory, and the design as mixed. Data collection methods such as interviews and surveys are detailed. The universal population is 240 companies, while the target population is 50 family businesses. A sample size of 45 is calculated. The results suggest that technological innovation is crucial for sustainability, but lack of capital and resistance to change are major obstacles. The interpretation highlights the improvement between technology and increased profitability.