Characterization of Competencies for Micro-entrepreneurs and their Impact on Productive Development: A Data-Driven Analysis in Ecuador

Abstract

Personal and professional competencies have be- come key factors in the commercial performance of micro- entrepreneurs. This sector maintains high participation in the productive activity of developing countries, yet the lack of knowledge regarding these skills constitutes a significant obstacle to growth. This research determines the relationship between micro-entrepreneurs’ competencies and their pro- ductive development through a bivariate analysis applied to 687 micro-entrepreneurs located in Zone 5 of Ecuador. The study adapts a model composed of four competency groups (self-regulation, motivation, empathy, social ability) distributed across three areas of action (business, educational, and social). The methodology utilizes statistical processing via SPSS, in- cluding ANOVA and multiple regression models. The results demonstrate a direct proportion between competencies and productivity. Furthermore, the data highlights a preference for “Initiative” (90%) while revealing a critical gap in “Cognitive Capacity” (12%) and professional training. The regression analysis identified job performance as the strongest predictor of productive development (β = 0.218, p < .001), followed by personal and professional aptitudes. These findings suggest that strengthening these capacities is essential not only for sur- vival but to guarantee self-sustainability. From a technological perspective, these findings also offer guidance for the design of information systems aligned with the practical needs and cognitive characteristics of micro-entrepreneurs.