The role of technological capabilities in the competitive advantage of companies in the Campinas, SP Tech Hub

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to examine the role of technological capabilities in the competitive advantage of supply chains for the “countryside” hub of São Paulo state. Design/methodology/approach – An interdisciplinary approach was adopted by combining the strategic orientation of supply chain management as a link between market and operational activities, with technological capabilities as an essential factor for competitive advantage. This exploratory, mixed-method study was conducted in the Campinas technology hub, which has become important for its available skilled workforce, and broad and structured supply chain. The study sample included ten companies and dealt with the techniques of content analysis and non-parametric statistics – the Mann–Whitney U technique. Findings – The results revealed that strategic supply chain management has an impact on technological capabilities and competitive advantage. Originality/value – They also showed that technological capabilities have a partial mediating effect on competitive advantage.