An approximation to the design process as a dynamic capability in manufacturing small and medium enterprises: A multiple case study

This research identifies the particularities of the industrial design process in 18 manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the central region of Venezuela. To achieve this result, an investigation of the current status of the situation was done with the purpose of establishing a theoretical framework as basis. Following a qualitative approach, subsequently the phenomenon under study was identified and an initial response to this approach was obtained, leading to the selection of the method of semi-structured interviews. The result of these interviews, and the process of triangulation with other data allowed to create an exploratory case of studies. For the data analysis it was used the Atlas.ti software, which allowed the generation of categories as well as coding and grouping concepts based on similarities. As a result, after a selective comparison of propositions, a Grounded Theory represented by an explanatory model was established, as well as a design process as a dynamic capacity in SMEs manufacturing, which is divided into three levels, namely trigger, execution and manufacturing. Keywords: design process, dynamic capability, SMEs, design management.