Approach to the meaning of “innovation” in the Colombian palm industry

Abstract

Innovation as a complex process implies that it is practical or understandable and has a precise meaning, which can be constructed or re-signified in practice. In this sense, this article aims to communicate the search for an approximation to the definition of innovation in the Colombian Palm Industry. Thus, a qualitative methodology was used, with a descriptive approach, focused on receiving direct information from decision-makers in three palm oil-producing companies in the north of the country. In conclusion, innovation in this industry means a creative evolution based on Joseph Schumpeter's ideas. However, it has an affinity with innovation in the production process, which responds to consolidated quality processes.