Development and application of a benchmarking information system in clusters of SMEs
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to focus on the development and application of a benchmarking information system designed for use within a cluster.
Design/methodology/approach
Case study as the field research methodology for theory testing and refinement.
Findings
Despite the difficulties and a lack of maturity for benchmarking and performance management to be overcome, the governing institutions and most of the companies have realized that implementation of the system in itself represents a step towards managing improvement of the clusters.
Research limitations/implications
Research is still at an early stage and applications of the information system need to be carried on further so as to review and validate it.
Practical implications
Absence of a culture of decision making based on analysis of information and lack of resources may create some difficulty in using metrics for a cluster of SMEs.
Originality/value
The paper proposes to apply the concepts and techniques of business performance management and improvement to manage performance of clusters of companies, offering a new approach on how to improve the collective efficiency of a cluster.
Keywords
Citation
Carpinetti, L.C.R. and Oiko, O.T. (2008), "Development and application of a benchmarking information system in clusters of SMEs", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. 15 No. 3, pp. 292-306. https://doi.org/10.1108/14635770810876601
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited