Value Addition through Development and Technology Transfer: A Study in the Electro-Electronic Industry

Abstract

This paper analyses how technology transfer helps defining technology strategies to be established for small businesses in electronics production supply chain in Brazil. To accomplish this, literature study, qualitative approach and technique of content analysis were conducted to support the interpretation of data collected through a case of multiple small companies of electro-electronic industry in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Southern Brazil, based on interviews. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed in order to identify significant excerpt to our subject. Questions were separated by blocks (constructs) in order to contemplate the theoretical framework. It was found that these companies use technology transfer and technology strategy in adding value to ensure competitiveness through the acquisition of technologies in their products and processes. This practice influence the decision making related to the selection and acquisition of new technologies based on the strategy outlined. As large organizations, small companies also need to be prepared to keep up with technological developments in the market. The competitive environment requires these companies to continue to search for new technologies to be deployed in their products and their processes in order to make them competitive in the market and to compete with large organizations.