Structured management practices and the improvement of business outcomes: the case of Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay

The role of management practices for the company's success has been highlighted by academics. But most evidence, especially in developing countries, has been anecdotal or based on case studies. This study explores the impact of structured management practices on company outcomes in Latin America. Senior executives across 159 Argentine, Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Uruguayan companies where interviewed. Data was collected on the implementation of structured management practices and business outcomes. Evidence suggests that, regardless of the country, company's and executive's characteristics, the structured management practices related to continuous improvement and innovation are those that have the greatest impact on improving company's key outcomes, particularly revenues, profitability, and growth. This paper makes a significant contribution to the 'management as a technology' approach by incorporating evidence obtained from Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay. Will benefit Latin American policymakers by suggesting which management practice should be promoted to increase the productivity of firms.