Smart strategies for innovation and productivity in the Columbian maintenance industry: an experience report

Abstract

This study focuses on understanding how Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) can drive the innovation strategy in the Competitive Maintenance and Metalworking Cluster in Colombia, specifically in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that provide services in these areas. The objective is to analyse the relationship between innovation factors associated with the use of soft technologies and the challenges these companies face in improving their performance, primarily measured in terms of productivity. Key aspects considered include the training and education of human talent, the implementation of advanced technologies, and the promotion of collaboration and knowledge exchange among companies within the cluster. The study’s results highlight the need to strengthen the cluster’s competitiveness to attract investment and generate quality employment in the region. A principal component analysis model and a multiple linear regression model were employed to identify the most influential variables, emphasising the importance of creative environments, new product development, and cooperation and competition strategies as key elements for enhancing competitiveness in the sector.