A proposed model to measure the maturity level for social, organizational and technological determinant factors of social entrepreneurships

Abstract

Purpose

The primary aim of this study is to create a comprehensive model quantifying the maturity levels of key determinants crucial for the sustained success of public sector entrepreneurship (PSE) [social entrepreneurship (SE)]. By integrating social, organizational and technological elements with Max-Neef's human needs, the model offers a holistic perspective for SE measurement. Notably, it emphasizes Max-Neef's existential needs (being, having, doing, interacting) to analyze variables crucial for sustainability, from diverse perspectives within SE.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a quantitative approach to develop a maturity model for assessing SE based on Max-Neef's human needs. The model integrates social, organizational and technological dimensions, using K-means algorithm for data processing. A panel of experts assigns weights to variables, and the maturity levels are adapted from the Capability Maturity Model. Data from 47 SEs in Ecuador's Zone 6 inform model construction, validated with two textile sector SEs. The methodology comprises three stages: variable selection, model construction and nonprobabilistic sample validation in Zone 6.

Findings

The research yields a maturity model enabling the quantification of PSE entrepreneurship maturity over time. It incorporates social, organizational and technological variables with Max-Neef's human needs, providing a broader perspective for SE evaluation. The model allows assessing the maturity level of each determinant, performance per variable in a Likert Scale, and facilitates comparisons between individual entrepreneurship and the overall population or sample. Visualization is enhanced through a color scale based on the Capability Maturity Model.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations may stem from the nonprobabilistic convenience sample used for validation, potentially affecting the generalizability of findings. The model's application is specific to Zone 6 of Ecuador and may require adjustments for broader contexts. Although the K-means algorithm aids data processing, its limitations should be considered. Future research could explore the model's applicability in diverse geographical and sectoral settings for a more comprehensive understanding.

Practical implications

This research has led to the development of a model that quantifies the maturity level of key determinants crucial for the long-term sustainability of PSE. This model integrates elements from social, organizational and technological dimensions, offering a comprehensive framework for assessing SE.

Social implications

This model offers valuable insights for the development and sustainability of social entrepreneurship by providing a structured approach to measure and enhance key social, organizational and technological determinants. By integrating Max-Neef's framework of human needs, the model helps social enterprises better align their efforts with fundamental human needs, ensuring that initiatives not only address societal challenges effectively but also contribute to long-term social well-being. This approach encourages the development of more resilient and impactful social enterprises that are capable of adapting to diverse socioeconomic contexts.

Originality/value

The model's uniqueness lies in its integration of social, organizational and technological variables with Max-Neef's human needs, offering a nuanced assessment of PSE entrepreneurship determinant factors from a human perspective. By applying existential needs (being, having, doing, interacting) as analysis levels, the model provides a distinctive and insightful approach to evaluating the impact of key variables. Its value lies in identifying strengths and weaknesses in each entrepreneurship, guiding support strategies and informing discussions for constructing effective public policies.

Citation

Sarmiento Tito, M.A., Vintimilla, P.F., Echeverría Paredes, P.A., Quirola Campoverde, B.A. and Peña Gonzalez, S.A. (2024), "A proposed model to measure the maturity level for social, organizational and technological determinant factors of social entrepreneurships", Social Enterprise Journal, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/SEJ-03-2024-0034