Diseño de una propuesta de innovación en procesos para mejorar la rentabilidad de productores cacaoteros de la parroquia El Progreso, provincia de El Oro-Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Cocoa production is an important economic activity for Ecuador, not only economically but also culturally, due to the history of cocoa production in the country. However, small and medium-sized producers face difficulties in achieving adequate levels of profitability, mainly due to deficiencies in cost management, lack of planning, and decision-making based on empirical criteria. Therefore, this research aimed to develop an innovation proposal for production and administrative processes that supports increased profitability for cocoa producers in the parish of El Progreso, Pasaje canton, El Oro province. The methodology used was qualitative and applied, supported by a field diagnosis carried out through interviews with local producers using a Likert scale, backed up by a documentary review. Once the diagnosis was ready, a minimum viable product was developed using a semi-automatic tool to analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) using Power BI, a Microsoft storage and collection tool aimed at controlling costs, productivity, and income projection. The results show high acceptance of the proposal and its viability as an accessible management tool, enabling better decision-making, resource optimization, and strengthened decision-making to improve the profitability of small producers.