Family businesses and innovation, diagnostics in micro and small businesses in Ciudad Obregon , Sonora

Abstract

Family businesses are a representative sector of the economy in Mexico, due to economic units, 87% are represented by them so bet on innovation in these businesses is changing, evolving, do better because products and processes today have a shorter life cycle and require innovation factor. This research was conducted in order to understand the situation in innovation refers to family businesses in Ciudad Obregon, Sonora in order to identify opportunities for improvement in this economic sector. An instrument of research called was used: National Survey of Innovation in Manufacturing Sector supported by research organizations such as: INEGI and CONACYT and adjustments for a sample of 134 family businesses were made. The findings show that family businesses surveyed, 71% are living the first generation. 58% believe that it has not made new products or services locally, however in their processes to provide services or sell products, 70% have purchased machinery and equipment and hired oriented technology changes and improvements to their processes. As for organizational innovation 72% have trained their staff in innovation-related activities, although investment in this area has been below $ 1,500.00 pesos. Finally in terms of marketing, 61% have made  significant changes in methods  for pricing and 52% changes in the presentation of their products.  This concludes that family company makes efforts to innovate in terms of processes, how to organize and market their products, but it is also clear that the issue still a culture of innovation.