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In this sense, this study aimed to test the relationship between knowledge management processes, innovativeness and product innovation in the Brazilian textile sector. The quantitative research was applied to 157 companies in the textile sector in Brazil registered with the Institute for Industrial Studies and Marketing (IEMI). Data analysis was performed using two statistical techniques: structural equation modeling and mediation and moderation tests. The results identified two significant constructs that positively impact product innovation. Innovativeness mediates the relationship between knowledge acquisition and product innovation, and the type of activity moderates the relationship of these constructs. Better business performance can be linked to a greater capacity for innovation. Knowledge acquisition, innovativeness, and product innovation are elements that, when related, potentiate the greater competitiveness of organizations. This study is relevant both to academia and to the strategic management of organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to identify how open innovation variables influence the competitive capability of manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in a regional territory in Southern Brazil. The research method is a survey of 67 SMEs in Southern Brazil that provided data for an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model encompassing seven innovation variables and five competitiveness constructs. The results indicate that most innovation initiatives have a low impact on creating a competitive edge in the surveyed companies. The most remarkable positive impacts are (i) technology trends influencing the shop floor productivity, (ii) flexibility influencing internal aspects, and (iii) customer satisfaction and innovative ideas and customized supplies influencing the market orientation. The study also reports that innovation processes are not safe from failures. Some ill-defined innovation initiatives may jeopardize the competitive edge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]