Challenges and Opportunities of the Regional Innovation System in Norte de Santander (Colombia) for Boosting Business Competitiveness
Abstract
Objective: To explore how Regional Innovation Systems (RISs) interact and influence the development of dynamic capabilities in firms. In particular, the goal is to identify opportunities to improve collaboration and knowledge exchange among key actors within the RIS of Norte de Santander (Colombia).
Design/Methodology: A quantitative approach with a descriptive design was employed. To collect data, a questionnaire—validated by experts—was administered to 119 companies in the region. Subsequently, data analysis enabled the identification and characterization of the RIS’s main actors. As a result, a network map was created to visualize the connections between them.
Findings: Despite the presence of relevant actors in the RIS under study—such as service, commercial, and manufacturing firms; the National Training Service (abbreviated SENA in Spanish); the Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander; and various government entities—collaboration among them is still limited and poorly coordinated.
Conclusions: The lack of coordination hinders firms’ ability to develop dynamic capabilities necessary to adapt to changing environments and capitalize on innovation opportunities.
Originality: The study’s main contribution is a visual tool—network map—that illustrates the relationships between RIS actors and highlights areas for strengthening strategic alliances and enhancing business capabilities. Additionally, it offers an updated perspective on how the RIS under analysis operates in the region, with potential for application in similar contexts.
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