Learning and Adjustement Operations to Achieve Export Strategies in Sme <Br> Http://Dx.Doi.Org/10.5585/Riae.V10i2.160

Abstract

This article presents a study of technological development that occurs in association with learning processes in SME of fruits growers. The goal of the article is to answer the following question: How SME of fruits growers conduct their operations to fit the strategy of export? To seek answers, we performed a qualitative multi-case study, four companies being studied. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. To ensure the quality of fruits exports, there is an international certification called GLOBALGAP, which, after having obtained makes it possible to overcome barriers of entry for products in other countries. Three of the four companies studied are certified. Throughout the certification process, companies had to promote learning and intense changes in their daily work. These changes involved the use of new technologies, such as mode and type of application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. With the learning process occurred as the acquisition of new knowledge about agricultural management techniques more suitable to produce fruit of better quality, awareness of the need for greater care in personal hygiene and first aid training. Data analysis found that, to carry out the export strategy, companies had to seek development and improvement of its manpower, with the secondary gain improvement of production processes, including fruits that are directed to Brazilian market, which also showed greater improvement in quality.