Risk Management in Ecuador's Built Cultural Heritage: A Critical Analysis of Administrative Competencies in The Case of Cuenca

Abstract

The article analyses risk management and its administrative competencies in Ecuador through the case of Cuenca's built cultural heritage, employing a sequential approach and critical analysis of processes, resources, tools, and tangible results obtained. Methodologically, the analysis uses the mechanisms from Querol's Cultural Heritage Management Manual (2010; 2020), namely: 1) knowledge of heritage; 2) planning through public management activities in the territory; 3) control through the application of regulations according to levels of responsibility; and, 4) dissemination related to the tasks of divulgation and delivery of assets to society. Simultaneously, these are evaluated using the Organizational Effectiveness and Efficiency Scale (OESS) proposed by the International Consortium for Evidence-Based Practices Research. It is determined that the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of knowing and planning are average, whereas poor in the case of controlling and disseminating. Lastly, it is confirmed that the administrative management of the case study —and probably of other territories— is developing in the analyzed subject, limiting the consideration of built cultural heritage as a development agent.