Leveraging business intelligence for strategic growth: a case study of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry

Abstract

The present study uses Business Intelligence methodologies and tools in the public procurement system to improve the management and decision-making of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry in two regions of Chile. The data of transactions carried out in public purchases allows the generation of commercial strategies to improve their results. The information available on the public procurement platform was compiled for this purpose. Then, a Business Intelligence model based on the HEFESTO methodology was applied to develop a decision-making support platform prototype adapted for SMEs. The prototype is useful for analyzing public purchases, awarding tenders in specific geographic areas and economic sectors, and providing growth potential for SMEs. Likewise, the analysis of the current situation of the construction industry in the Biobío and Ñuble Regions, previous research related to the subject, and the analysis of the strategies used by SMEs operating in that market were considered. Using Business Intelligence in Public Procurement for SMEs in the construction industry provides a strategic ability to improve in such a competitive market. Digital platforms in public procurement make it possible to use a large volume of data to improve company management, and SMEs can now use them.