CONSTRUCTIVIST MODEL TO SUPPORT THE MANAGEMENT OF EXTERNAL INNOVATION IN THE PORT SECTOR

Abstract

The maritime transportation mode is the primary means for global goods movement, transforming ports into pivotal logistics centers in the operationalization of the supply chain. Due to its significance, terminals are constantly pressured to seek improvements in operational efficiency, relying on innovations as a necessary alternative to achieve their objectives. In this research, a case study was conducted at the private port in the city of Navegantes, located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, being one of the national leading in container handling volume. The research aims to develop a performance evaluation model to support the management of external innovation in the port. The intervention tool used was the Multicriteria Decision Aiding-Constructivist (MCDA-C) methodology, which, through primary and secondary data, enables the construction of a customized model according to the decision-maker's preferences and organizational context. The results presented by the model highlighted opportunities for improvement in the port's relationship with other external actors, as there is no formal and organized procedure for seeking external cooperation for the development of innovative solutions. At the same time, the management understands the importance of innovations for the sustainability of the company, investing, albeit in a decentralized manner, in improvements of both internal and external origin. The research contributes to the growth of the literature on the subject, in addition to offering practical contributions to the port of Navegantes in the form of a model capable of supporting innovation management, generating knowledge, highlighting critical points, and outlining improvement plans.