Innovation and Competitiveness in Construction Companies

Today's global economy demands that every organization invest in R&D. This is especially true in the construction industry given the current gap in R&D compared to other sectors, which in turn affects the competitiveness of the industry. In this study, innovation and competitiveness of a typical Spanish company are analyzed from two perspectives: internal and external. The internal analysis is based on direct observation over a twelve-month period, and includes interviews with the managerial personnel. The external analysis focuses on the construction market and its influence on the company. From this study, conclusions are drawn to strategically improve competitiveness in construction companies through R&D. A change in the business culture of construction companies is essential, namely one initiated by leaders in the sector. Systemization of innovation should be pursued not only through tangible projects, but also through process management.