Evaluation of technological learning mechanisms in smal-sized companies in the local production of apparel of Santa Catarina: a case study

Abstract

The development of innovative activities constitutes a fundamental requirement for companies to constitute improved competitive conditions. Thus, companies develop apprenticeship mechanisms with the objective of promoting relevant technical changes on products, processes, and management. Considering this, the present study evaluates the technological apprenticeship processes in micro and small companies of the production of apparel in Brusque, Santa Catarina. Therefore, 46 small-sized companies were interviewed. The interviews provided information to verify the routinely existence of innovative processes. They occur, especially, departing from apprenticeship mechanisms that are developed in the production through workers (learning by doing), with suppliers (learning by interacting), and with clients (learning by using). As a result, the innovative endeavors make possible for the companies to keep up with the changes on the technological pattern regarding fashion, design, and style of the products on the market.