Contributions of Social Technology to Local Development in Ecuador

Abstract

Background: Rural communities often face significant challenges regarding economic and social development. This study examines the transformative role of social technology in the parish of Salinas de Guaranda in Ecuador.

Objective: To analyse the contributions of social technology to local development in Salinas de Guaranda in Ecuador.

Methodology: A case study was used to analyse the contributions of social technology to community development in Salinas de Guaranda, Ecuador. Data collection was carried out through interviews, observation, and literature review. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with key community stakeholders, chosen for their knowledge of the history of the community process and its contribution to local development. Each interview lasted approximately 45 minutes. Observation of daily activities and literature review complemented the interviews, providing historical and contextual data.

Results: Social technology in Salinas de Guaranda was adapted in three stages: first, to improve the organisational infrastructure; then, to strengthen processes; and finally, to optimise productive systems. Active community participation in decision-making and the inclusion of external knowledge were crucial for local development in Salinas de Guaranda.

Unique Contribution: The study, through a case study in Salinas de Guaranda, Ecuador, has revealed the role of social technology in local development, showing how social technology can transform rural communities.

Conclusion: Social technology in Salinas de Guaranda, Ecuador, has had a positive impact on the community and has been key to its local development, by improving infrastructure, productive processes and community participation.

Key Recommendation: Research should be extended to other rural communities to compare experiences and further analyse the long-term impact of social technology. The role of public policies and academia in promoting social technologies for local development should also be explored.