A MODEL FOR MEASURING AND SORTING THE INNOVATION CAPABILITY OF MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES: AN APPLICATION IN CHILE

摘要

In this paper, the non-compensatory fuzzy multicriteria method flow-sort is used as the core of a decision system for classifying a company according to its potential for innovation. The potential is measured by the achievement level in the adoption of innovation best practices adapted from various works of the literature. The classification according to the obtained performance becomes the starting point for a continuous improvement program. Several criteria are measured with the aid of an expert who evaluates to what extent certain managerial practices are present, particularly centered at manufacturing SMEs. With the diagnosis tool, recommendations can be made for areas in aspects such as: product conception, design engineering, human resources, strategic management, project follow up, and knowledge management and capitalization. A two-year follow up case from three SME belonging to the metalworking sector in Chile is discussed.