Influences of technological attributes on sourcing of manufacturing technologies in developing countries The case of Peru Influencias de los atributos tecnologicos en el abastecimiento de tecnologias de manufactura en paises en desarrollo El caso de Peru Influencias de atributos tecnologicos no fornecimento de tecnologias de fabricacao em paises em desenvolvimento o caso do Peru

摘要

Purpose - As part of a new focus on a better balance of investment in innovation activities in developing countries, this study aims to understand the effects of technological attributes (technological complexity and type of technology) on manufacturing technology sourcing (whether firms choose either internal development or external sources).Design/methodology/approach - Multiple-case studies were conducted in the Peruvian manufacturing sector. Findings - The authors found that, across Peruvian manufacturing firms, they develop a certain manufacturing technology related to their capabilities. However, when the total cost of acquisition is lower than internal costs of developing technologies, they will choose external sources, regardless of their capabilities and complexity of the technology. In addition, analysis of the type of technology indicated that the pursuit of simultaneous exploration and exploitation occurs when firms use external sources rather than internal. Research limitations/implications - This study has the limitation that data have been collected years - after the decision-making process; the results are based solely on the authors' analysis using the case of Peruvian industry, and they do not track the impact on the performance of manufacturing technology decisions. Practical implications - The findings have important implications for technology managers of South American manufacturing firms that are decision makers in the sourcing of new manufacturing technologies. Originality/value - The results of this study provide literature with insights into technology sourcing strategy in developing countries and the importance of progress in transitioning to technological innovation and catchup.