Innovation in Micro Firms that Build Machine Tools: Effects of T-KIBS on Technological and Non-technological Innovations
Metadata
Show full item recordEditorial
Fundação Álvares Penteado
Materia
KIBS Technological innovation Non-technological innovation Micro firms Machine tools
Date
2022-04-08Referencia bibliográfica
Seclen-Luna, J.P... [et al.] (2022). Innovation in Micro Firms that Build Machine Tools: Effects of T-KIBS on Technological and Non-technological Innovations. Revista Brasileira de Gestão de Negócios, 24(1), p.144-158. [https://doi.org/10.7819/rbgn.v24i1.4163]
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to evaluate the effects of KIBS on innovation outcomes
in micro firms that build machine tools according to the categories of KIBS.
Theoretical framework – This article not only contributes to the theory on the
innovation process by reinforcing the arguments that micro firms can achieve
innovations, but also to the idea that KIBS have a positive influence on technological
and non-technological innovation in manufacturing firms. Design/methodology/
approach – To achieve the objective of the study, the Mann-Whitney U Test was
used as the analysis technique. A survey was carried out to collect data from 40 micro
firms that build machine tools located in the Basque Country (Spain) and Emilia-
Romagna (Italy). Findings – The results suggest that KIBS have positive effects
on innovations in manufacturing firms. However, there are differences according
to the categories of KIBS. For instance, T-KIBS favour technological innovation,
while P-KIBS and C-KIBS affect non-technological innovation. In addition, ICT
services also have a positive relationship with non-technological innovation. We
conclude by highlighting the importance of T-KIBS to confront the challenges of
Industry 4.0 and the need for further research to determine the role of KIBS in the
context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Practical & social implications of
the research – Micro firms need to enhance their absorptive capacity by increasing
ICT and R&D investments, to confront the challenges of Industry 4.0, and given
the fact that industry is beginning to incorporate more and more codified sciencebased
knowledge. Perhaps hiring T-KIBS would be an appropriate decision for
micro firms. Originality/value – This study contributes to the advancement of
research involving different category of KIBS and their effects on manufacturing
firms’ innovation, especially in micro firms that build machine tools.