Analysis of the Acquisition Mechanisms and Conversion of Knowledge to the Technological Capacity Accumulation in Brazilian Capital Goods

Marcelo Seido Nagano; Antonio Iacono; Tiago Fernando Musetti

doi:10.5020/2318-0722.2025.31.e15000

Authors

Marcelo Seido Nagano University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0239-1725
Antonio Iacono University of São Paulo, Lorena, São Paulo, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3369-0362
Tiago Fernando Musetti University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9775-5802

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5020/2318-0722.2025.31.e15000

Keywords:

technological learning, technological capability, knowledge acquisition, knowledge conversion, correspondence analysis

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the learning processes and to identify the knowledge acquisition and conversion mechanisms that contribute significantly to the process of accumulation of technological capacity. In order to achieve these objectives, an exploratory study carried out among 44 companies in the mechanical capital goods sector in Brazil. The contribution of knowledge acquisition and conversion mechanisms was assessed using the Technological Capability Index (TCI), correspondence analysis, and multiple linear regression with stepwise selection. Results indicate varying levels of influence across mechanisms; show that, although such mechanisms are present, they vary in intensity and contribution, reflecting differences in the accumulation of technological capabilities over time. Initiatives related to production capacity expansion, training in production and process techniques, and quality systems are positively associated with the TCI, indicating stronger organizational engagement in process improvement. However, limited interaction with external sources of knowledge, low levels of knowledge sharing, and a reduced degree of codified knowledge recombination are observed. These findings highlight the importance of effectively managing multiple learning mechanisms, as they directly influence the pace and trajectory of technological capability accumulation within firms.

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Author Biographies

Marcelo Seido Nagano, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil

Holds a Master's and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the São Carlos School of Engineering at the University of São Paulo (EESC-USP), and completed a Postdoctorate in Applied Mathematics and Computing at the Associated Laboratory for Computing and Applied Mathematics of the National Institute for Space Research (INPE). He is currently a Researcher and CNPq Productivity Research Fellow (Level 1-B), as well as Editor-in-Chief of international journals: Technology Audit and Production Reserves (TAPR - ISSN: 2664-9969) and Journal of Engineering and Computer Innovations (JECI - ISSN: 2141-6508).

Antonio Iacono, University of São Paulo, Lorena, São Paulo, Brazil

Associate Professor at the Lorena School of Engineering, University of São Paulo (EEL-USP). Holds a Master's and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of São Paulo and a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Federal University of Itajubá.

Tiago Fernando Musetti, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil

Holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Postgraduate Certificate in Business Management from the University of Araraquara (UNIARA). Specialist in Urban Engineering. Holds a Master's degree in Industrial Engineering from the São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo (EESC/USP). Holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the Department of Industrial Engineering at the Federal University of São Carlos (DEP/UFSCar). Completed Postdoctoral research in Industrial Engineering at the São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo (EESC/USP).

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