Does technological learning pay off?: implications of capability accumulation for techno-economic performance improvement in a steelmaking unit in Brazil (1997-2001)

Abstract

This paper focuses on the implications of learning processes for technological capability accumulation and performance improvement. These relations are evaluated through a single case study in the steelmaking unit of Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (1997)(1998)(1999)(2000)(2001). Recently developed frameworks in literature on technological capability accumulation and learning processes have been used, but adapted to the unit studied. The technological capability is assessed in levels of competence to process, product and equipment functions. The learning processes are analysed in processes (inner and outer knowledge acquisition, socialization and codification) and examined in the light of their key-features (variety, intensity, functioning and interaction). The study has found that the technological capability accumulation through learning processes had positive implications to the improvement of the unit's performance.