Abstract
The importance of technology to developing countries is widely recognised as they compete internationally and develop internally. Firms acquire technology by different means and from diverse sources, and they possess varying levels of competence. Since countries are at various stages of economic and technological development, prescriptive approaches to technology and operations integration are not appropriate. The paper discusses factors in the literature that affect the integration of technology and operations in developing countries. Country similarities and differences also play a role, so the study examines three developing countries: Brazil, India and South Africa. These countries are emerging from periods of regulation and have developed certain sectors of their economies. Empirical evidence is provided from a study of managers in South Africa who were asked to assess the important factors in
technology integration, and to score the extent to which they can control these. Results from the study concur with the literature regarding the importance of a country’s political stability and its policies towards new investment and infrastructure. Knowledge and understanding of technology are essential for successful integration in countries with insufficient skilled personnel, and where education levels are low.
technology integration, and to score the extent to which they can control these. Results from the study concur with the literature regarding the importance of a country’s political stability and its policies towards new investment and infrastructure. Knowledge and understanding of technology are essential for successful integration in countries with insufficient skilled personnel, and where education levels are low.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Operations management and the new economy |
Subtitle of host publication | proceedings of 9th international European Operations Management Conference |
Editors | John K. Christiansen, Harry Boer |
Pages | 697-707 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Volume | 1 |
Publication status | Published - 2002 |
Event | 9th international conference of the European Operations Management Association - Copenhagen, Denmark Duration: 2 Jun 2002 → 4 Jun 2002 |
Conference
Conference | 9th international conference of the European Operations Management Association |
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Abbreviated title | EurOMA 2002 |
Country/Territory | Denmark |
City | Copenhagen |
Period | 2/06/02 → 4/06/02 |