Análise das relações entre práticas de melhoria contínua e desempenho percebido na inovação de produtos e processos

Abstract

The practices of Continuous Improvement (CI) and the Innovation of products and processes get competitive advantage for organizations, in relation to competitors, whether in positioning by low cost or differentiation strategy. These practices need to be managed and integrated in order to ensure, in the long run, the desired results. Although seen as significant for the strategic goals of the organization, often are managed independently and with different goals. There is little consensus in the literature if the use of Continuous Improvement Practices has positive or negative impact on the processes and outcomes of Innovation in firm. However, are observed recurring statements about the necessity of coexistence and integration of CI programs and Practices and Innovation. There is interest in examining what existing relations in the context of organizations that make it possible to identify whether a greater intensity of use of CI practices influences the perceived performance in innovation of products and processes. In order to analyze the possible relations, the study was conducted by survey on a sample of 102 companies of Auto parts, Pharmaceuticals, Electric-Electronics appliances the State of São Paulo in Brazil. The sample data were analyzed by descriptive and multivariate statistical methods (cluster analysis). The descriptive analysis showed significant evidence on integration relations between CI and Product and process innovation, as well as, the IC contribution in creating a fertile environment for Innovation. Multivariate analyzes revealed existence of associations between the intensity of use of IC practices and perceived performance in Innovation, mainly in processes. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the topic and management application in organizations, besides indicating opportunities for further studies.