Ecuadorian Companies in the Digital Age: Innovate or Disappear

Tania Morales-Molina (), Silvia Lorena Llamuca-Pérez () and César Maximiliano Calvache-Vargas ()
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Tania Morales-Molina: Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica
Silvia Lorena Llamuca-Pérez: Universidad Técnica de Ambato
César Maximiliano Calvache-Vargas: Universidad Técnica de Ambato

Chapter 5 in Management, Tourism, and Smart Technologies, Vol 2, 2026, pp 61-74 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This research addresses the relevance of digital transformation to the competitiveness of Ecuadorian companies. The implementation of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, Big Data, Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), enables process optimization, increased productivity, and an expansion of market reach. However, various obstacles hinder digitalization, such as resistance to change, lack of training, and limited financial resources, preventing many Ecuadorian companies from fully taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital age. This study aims to analyze the impact of digital transformation on Ecuadorian companies, identifying the challenges they face and the opportunities available to strengthen their competitiveness. The methodological approach adopted in this research is of a mixed type, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques, an analysis based on. In the analysis of data from secondary sources, such as sector reports and previous studies, key indicators of technological adoption, implementation barriers, and sectors with the greatest digital progress were examined. The results obtained indicate that e-commerce leads digital adoption with 70%, followed by financial services with 65%. However, sectors such as agribusiness and manufacturing still lag behind. Among the main barriers identified, a lack of financial resources (45%) and a lack of training (30%) emerge as the main obstacles. However, companies that have managed to digitize have experienced significant improvements, increasing their operational efficiency from 60%–85% and their market reach from 50%–90%. It is concluded that, to achieve a sustainable digital transformation, it is crucial for companies to invest in technology, train their human talent, and foster a culture of innovation. Without these factors, digitalization will continue to be a challenge, and many organizations could face the risk of falling behind in an increasingly competitive market.

Keywords: Ecuadorian companies; Digital era; Innovation; Transformation; Technology (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-24600-4_5

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