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    Item type:Publication,
    Impact of the Integration of Digital Channels on Customer Service in Apparel Stores
    (Springer Nature Switzerland, 2026) ; ;
    Hidalgo-Potosí, Daniela Alejandra
    This study aims to evaluate the impact of integrating digital channels and social networks on customer service in the clothing retail sector. A descriptive and correlational design was used with a random sample of 300 consumers who had interacted with the stores through digital channels in the last six months. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed customer profile, interaction on digital channels, and customer satisfaction. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed using statistical software, with the primary evaluation criterion being customer satisfaction, measured using a 5-point Likert scale. The results show that the integration of digital channels increases the satisfaction of very satisfied customers by 26.7%, and 40% of the surveyed consumers expressed a greater willingness to repeat purchases. The correlational analysis revealed a moderate positive relationship (r = 0.56, p < 0.01) between the integration of digital channels and customer satisfaction. Additionally, a reduction in the variability of response times was observed after integration, indicating greater consistency and efficiency in customer service. The questionnaire demonstrated high internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.84, which ensures the reliability of the measurements. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the digitalization of customer service in the clothing retail sector significantly improves consumer satisfaction and loyalty, supporting the need for companies to continue innovating in their customer service strategies to maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly demanding market. These findings have important implications for future research, which could delve deeper into the analysis of the long-term impact of automation on customer relationships and the development of artificial intelligence algorithms that further optimize digital service. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.
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    Digitalization to Improve Efficiency and Traceability in Personal Protective Equipment Warehouses
    Efficient management of industrial warehouses remains a recurring challenge in sectors that rely on strict control of critical supplies, such as personal protective equipment, where manual processes continue to limit inventory accuracy, traceability, and operational responsiveness. In this context, digitalization emerges as a key mechanism for optimizing logistics flows and reducing risks associated with errors in materials management. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of implementing information technologies on the efficiency and traceability of a personal protective equipment warehouse, identifying the operational benefits derived from the automation of recording, control, and tracking processes. A descriptive mixed-methods design was developed, combining direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis with quantitative measurements taken before and after the technological intervention. The strategy included the incorporation of inventory software, electronic code readers, and digitalized protocols for receiving, dispatching, and replenishment. The primary outcome measure was inventory accuracy, while secondary criteria included traceability, internal request response time, and the reduction of human errors in material registration. Digitalization significantly increased inventory accuracy, showing substantial improvements in the correspondence between physical stock and recorded stock. In addition, traceability demonstrated notable progress by enabling real-time identification of the location and status of supplies, while dispatch and replenishment times were considerably reduced due to the automation of search and verification procedures. Errors associated with duplicated or incomplete records decreased noticeably following digital standardization. In conclusion, the integration of information technologies proved to be an effective tool for improving logistics efficiency and strengthening operational control in personal protective equipment warehouses, confirming the relevance of its adoption in industrial environments seeking to optimize resources, minimize risks, and move toward sustainable management models. These results open the door for future research aimed at analyzing staff satisfaction, budgetary performance, and the scalability of these solutions in larger and more complex organizations. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.
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    Exploring Challenges and Strategies for Measuring the Social Impact of Entrepreneurship in Ecuador
    Research conducted in Ecuador reveals that while 27% of entrepreneurs surveyed identified lack of liquidity as their main challenge, another 23% highlighted low sales as a significant obstacle, and 19% pointed to insecurity. These challenges vary markedly between regions such as Pichincha, Guayas, Manabí and Azuay, which complicates the standardization of methods for measuring the social impact of ventures. Through qualitative interviews and quantitative analysis of INEC data, it was observed that less than 40% of entrepreneurs in Pichincha are trained in impact assessment techniques, which contrasts with the need for training and tools adapted to local contexts. This lack of preparation underlines the urgency of developing customized methodologies that allow entrepreneurs and policy makers to better understand and support the sustainable growth of entrepreneurship in each province. The need for adaptation and customization of measurement tools is evident, particularly in provinces where economic and cultural characteristics vary significantly, e.g. in Azuay, where the artisanal sector is preponderant, it would be beneficial to implement measurement systems that consider cultural and community impacts in addition to economic ones, and collaboration between academia, government and non-governmental organizations can provide vital support in the creation of these methodologies, ensuring that they are robust and relevant. By fostering a stronger environment for social impact measurement, supportive policies could be improved, thus contributing to more equitable economic and social development in Ecuador. This study suggests a clear path towards creating a more effective framework for assessing and maximizing the social impact of ventures, opening up opportunities for future research that delves deeper into the interaction between public policies and entrepreneurial practices in different regional settings.
      31
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    Tools for Occupational Diseases Control in the Artisan Figures of Marzipan
    (2022)
    Álvarez A.
    ;
    ;
    Villamarín N.
    A worker in an eight-hour workday is exposed to muscle aches or numbness in the legs and fatigue. Matrices were made for the identification and evaluation of physical risks to the population of artisans of marzipan figures in the parish of Calderon in Quito Ecuador, ergonomic evaluation methods were also applied such as: The RULA, Check list OCRA and the NIOSH equation. Five stages that make up the production process were identified: Preparation of the dough, kneading, shaping and finishing, varnishing, and drying, of all these stages the drying process is the most time consuming, the shaping and finishing stage is the one that more work and details requires, the kneading is in which a standing posture is maintained by the craftsman and with repetitive movements. It is necessary to implement a production system with well-defined phases, it is necessary to redesign the jobs that present a high level of ergonomic and physical risk, once the improvements proposed in the project have been applied, it is essential to maintain constant training with the artisans. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.
    Scopus© Citations 1  41
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    Optimizing the Laboratory Supply Chain with Clarke and Wright Fuzzy Algorithm
    The implementation of an optimization strategy in a company dedicated to the sale of laboratory equipment and reagents is detailed. Initially, two routes were established with the objective of significantly reducing delivery times and related costs. These routes were designed using linear programming methods, considering elements such as vehicle carrying capacity, time constraints and customer requirements. After defining the routes, they were incorporated into the company’s operations, adjusting the delivery schedule, and allocating the appropriate resources for the execution of the new logistics plan. In addition, a system was implemented to regularly monitor and control the results, allowing necessary adjustments to be made. The implementation of these measures proved successful, reducing delivery time by 321 min, equivalent to 5.35 h, and saving USD 51.54 per kilometer. This led to a substantial improvement in the company’s logistical efficiency and customer satisfaction. It is recommended to maintain weekly monitoring and control of the implementation, evaluating the results periodically. It is also advisable to regularly check the vehicles used in transportation to ensure their optimal condition and guarantee efficiency and safety in deliveries. The possibility of applying this optimization proposal in other companies in the same sector is raised, given that the positive results obtained could be replicable in similar organizations. In conclusion, the application of this optimization proposal in the laboratory material and reagents company has proven to be extremely effective, reducing delivery times and associated costs, while improving operational efficiency and increasing customer satisfaction.
      14  1
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    AN ASSESSMENT OF CUBAN FOOD SECURITY BASED ON THE AGRICULTURAL AREA UNDER CULTIVATION AND AGRICULTURAL YIELDS
    The research was carried out with official data published in the country, collected from official information sources from 2007 to 2019. In the variables analyzed, the following were considered as having high explanatory power: land distribution, total area, agricultural area, cultivated area, yields of selected crops. For the calculation of the nutritional needs of the population, the nutritional recommendations for the Cuban population were taken into account and the productions were grouped ac-cording to the classification established for the food groups in Cuba. The country’s agricultural area is 6400.18 Mha in 2019, which its use decreases for all the items studied, except for banana, bell pepper, bean, lemon, guava and pump fruit. In addition, yields of the main crops are low, as is the productivity of the livestock sector analyzed. To contribute to the achieve-ment of food security for the Cuban population in correspondence with the standards of the National Institute of Nutrition, an area with technological package (irrigation and optimal yields) of 3942577.82 ha is needed, existing agricultural area in the country; and without technological package (without irrigation), an area of 6424285.82 ha, which are insufficient in 23485 ha. © 2022, University of Cienfuegos, Carlos Rafael Rodriguez. All rights reserved.
      24
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    Strategies to Produce Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Supplies for Tourism in the Galapagos Archipelago
    The implementation of disinfectants in the Galapagos Islands requires a meticulous and thoughtful approach, given the ecological sensitivity of this protected area. Disinfectants must be biodegradable and non-toxic to preserve the unique terrestrial and marine biodiversity of the islands. Their effectiveness against a variety of pathogens is critical to protect public health, but this must not compromise the integrity of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Adherence to strict environmental regulations and the provision of clear information on their use are imperative to ensure that their application is both safe and responsible. Maintaining this delicate balance between the protection of human health and the conservation of the unique ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands is crucial, and the disinfectants used play a key role in this effort. The microenterprise under study is dedicated to the manufacture of cleaning products such as disinfectants, liquid soap, and fabric softener for the hotel sector on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Archipelago; 8 years ago, due to external factors on the island, the company presented an increase in sales, resulting in inefficiency in the manufacturing process due to lack of capacity, the physical space where it processes was not designed for this business as it is located within the property of the owner of the company, for this reason the 30 m2 that are currently used do not have inventory areas of raw materials, material in process and finished products, which can meet the current demand for production. By using manual processes for the manufacture of the products, the transformation time varies between 1 and 2 days for each reference, which delays delivery times, creating failures that contribute to the non-fulfillment of orders. By diagnosing the mixing and packaging operations that directly influence the failure to deliver products to the final customer, an improvement proposal is made to take advantage of the capacity of the areas [1], reduce waste and minimize the ergonomic risks of the current production line to increase its productivity and satisfy the demand of its customers
      19
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    Software and Methods Applied in the Standardization of the Grinding Process for Automobile Engines as a Business Solution
    When the research addresses the problem of empirical engine rectification based exclusively on the experience of the workers, which results in nonconformities on the part of the customers due to delays in delivery times. To solve this, it was proposed to standardize the operation cycles using the Stop and Observe Method. Through techniques such as direct observation, time studies and process diagrams, the grinding process was analyzed in detail. The data collected were compared with the Crystal Ball program, demonstrating consistency with 95% confidence. It was determined that the time required to rectify an engine was 27.23 days, with supplements affecting 4.8 h of an 8-h workday. The investigation proposed improvements, including the implementation of a hydraulic scissor table to reduce the physical strain on the operators and the introduction of hearing protection. This resulted in a noise reduction from 30 dB to 15 dB, exceeding the regulations of Executive Decree 2393. With these measures, the total grinding time was reduced to 26 days, representing an efficiency gain of 639.15 min or 10.65 h. This standardization not only improves the efficiency of the process, but also allows for more accurate communication with the customer on delivery times, increasing customer satisfaction.
      29  1
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    Sustainable Tourism in Cotacachi Canton, Ecuador
    (2025) ;
    Camila Terán-Robayo
    ;
    Nicole Alejandra Revelo-Bossano
    ;
    This study examines the development and perception of sustainable tourism in Cotacachi, a region known for its rich biodiversity and indigenous culture in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador. Despite its potential for ecotourism, our survey results indicate that 66.7% of respondents are unaware of the concept of sustainable tourism and 63.3% have never participated in related activities, highlighting a notable lack of awareness and participation in sustainable practices. The research included a quantitative analysis using online surveys targeting 30 respondents, revealing that only 33.3% are familiar with sustainable tourism. Furthermore, although 50% of participants recognize the importance of these practices, there is a significant discrepancy in the perception of their relevance, suggesting a divide in the understanding and appreciation of sustainable tourism. The results highlight the need for intensive educational programs that not only promote awareness of sustainability but also integrate the community into the planning and benefits of tourism. The sustainable tourism plan proposed in this study seeks to improve the visibility and accessibility of Cotacachi’s natural landscapes, promote the inclusion of indigenous communities in tourism, and strengthen environmental conservation efforts. It is suggested that these efforts could enrich the tourism experience while stimulating local economic development, supporting biodiversity conservation, and reinforcing the region’s cultural identity. Through a holistic approach, the study proposes to transform Cotacachi into a model of sustainable tourism, ensuring long-term benefits for both the community and the environment. The study further revealed that 60% of respondents are aware of Cotacachi’s food fair that connects farmers with merchants, representing a sustainable practice. However, further dissemination and participation in these events is still lacking. For future research, it is recommended to continuously monitor perception and participation in sustainable tourism, in addition to assessing the economic, social, and environmental impact of the proposed interventions. With these measures, Cotacachi can move toward truly sustainable tourism that equitably benefits all stakeholders.
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    Supply Chain Optimization Through Collaborative Technologies in Industrial Engineering
    Technological integration in logistics processes has become a current challenge for the manufacturing industry. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of collaborative technologies on logistics indicators, focusing on variables such as interoperability and the use of digital platforms. To achieve this purpose, a quantitative approach with a correlational design was employed, using logistics efficiency as the main evaluation criterion. Five manufacturing companies were analyzed, assessing variables such as cycle time, delivery punctuality, and inventory. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the level of interoperability (β = 0.62, p = 0.001) and the frequency of use of collaborative platforms (β = 0.48, p = 0.005) were the most impactful factors. Companies with high integration showed a 40% reduction in cycle time and a 13% increase in on-time deliveries. These findings show that not only is technological adoption crucial but so is its effective and collaborative integration. The importance of promoting an organizational culture oriented toward digital transformation is highlighted, as well as policies that encourage continuous training and systematic use of interoperable digital tools. Furthermore, the results suggest that technological integration can act as a catalyst for improving interdepartmental coordination and real-time supply chain visibility. These benefits contribute not only to greater operational efficiency but also to a higher adaptability in changing and demanding environments. This research provides useful empirical evidence for strategic decision-making in companies seeking to optimize their logistics performance through technological solutions. In conclusion, it is confirmed that a well-structured strategy of collaborative technological integration significantly improves logistics efficiency, which has important implications for the digital transformation of the industrial sector and its long-term competitiveness. Future studies could expand the scope to other sectors and consider additional organizational variables. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.
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