Accelerating Innovation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the ICT Services Sector

Abstract

This work is aimed at establishing key organizational strategies that push small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the information and communication technologies (ICT) services sector to be more innovative. Following an input and output approach, a theoretical model is built that helps determine such key factors. Then the model is validated with fieldwork carried out on a representative sample in Castile-Leon region (Spain). According to this model, the decision to innovate (and the trigger for research and development [R&D] activities in SMEs in the ICT services sector) is the result of needs that are presented by customers (public or private sector) in tailored projects. All the same, the factors leading to innovation are in order of importance, the technological level of the company, the effort made by the company in R&D, and finally, systems of incentives.