Digital economy, a tool to improve competitiveness and productivity in PYMES case: Machala-Ecuador

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to analyze the digital economy as a tool to improve the competitiveness and productivity of pymes in the city of Machala. According to the theoretical and empirical arguments that have been handled in the methodological design, a descriptive and explanatory research was applied. Therefore, in the methodology, a review of scientific literature was conducted to identify processes, determinants and procedures immersed in the digital economy and its impact on small and medium enterprises. Likewise, the instrument used for the collection of information was the survey, through the application of a questionnaire of 15 questions addressed to 160 small and medium enterprises, a sample that was obtained from the superintendence of companies (Supercia), starting from a universe of 271, the same that were affected by the course of the years, experiencing profound changes and rapid growth in digital globalization. Finally, the results of the research show that the digital economy benefited many of the medium and small companies in the city of Machala, likewise, it boosted the productivity of organizations, allowing them to adapt and expand or consequently close or go bankrupt.