Benchmarking system as a technological innovation strategy in the heavy and extraheaved crude sector

Abstract

The general objective of the work presented was to propose a strategic plan based on benchmarking as a technological  innovation  strategy  for  the  heavy  and  extra-heavy  crude  sector.  The  research  was  explanatory,  field,  with  a  feasible  project  modality,  with  a  non-experimental  and  descriptive  transectional  design,  the  sample  corresponded  to  six  mixed  companies  of  the  heavy  and  extra-heavy  crude  sector,  selected  by  non-probabilistic sampling  based  on  criteria  of  selection.  The  research  was  developed  through  the  survey  technique,  with  a  questionnaire of 51 items. The results obtained indicated the little interest on the part of joint ventures to determine the existing gaps between their own current performance and that of leading competitors. Similarly, little investment in  the  incorporation  of  new  technologies  into  the  study  sector  was  evidenced,  as  well  as  failures  in  a  staff  training  plan,  coupled  with  weaknesses  to  promote  strategic  alliances  with  external  sources.  Subsequently,  a  competitive  benchmarking was carried out among three selected joint ventures, yielding a gap of 59% between joint venture A, compared  to  joint  ventures  A  and  B.  Finally,  the  Strategic  plan  using  the  balanced  scorecard  technique,  where  ten  strategic  objectives  were  established,  formulated  for  the  seven  projects  generated  in  the  research,  aimed  at  consolidating  technological  innovation  strategies  in  the  heavy  and  extra-heavy  crude  sector  supported  in  the  benchmarking tool.