SMEs Managerial Skills and Competitiveness Dataset
Description
This dataset contains primary data collected from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The purpose of the dataset is to document organizational characteristics and managerial practices, with particular emphasis on managerial skills and their association with perceived business competitiveness. The dataset is based on responses obtained through a structured questionnaire administered to SME owners and managers. It includes variables related to key dimensions of managerial skills—such as leadership, decision-making, communication, and strategic orientation—as well as indicators reflecting the firms’ perceived level of competitiveness. The data provide a cross-sectional view of SMEs operating in a regional economic context and can be used for academic, comparative, and empirical research in areas such as business administration, organizational behavior, and SME development. All records are anonymized, and no personally identifiable information is included.
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### **Data Collection Methodology** The data were collected from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, using a structured and systematic approach designed to ensure consistency and reproducibility. A structured questionnaire was developed based on established constructs in the literature related to managerial skills and business competitiveness. The instrument included multiple items organized into thematic sections covering key dimensions such as leadership, decision-making, communication, and strategic orientation, as well as indicators of perceived competitiveness. Prior to data collection, the questionnaire underwent a content validation process through expert review to ensure clarity, relevance, and alignment with the research objectives. Feedback from this stage was incorporated into the final version of the instrument. Data collection was carried out through direct administration of the questionnaire to SME owners and managers. Participants were selected using a non-probabilistic sampling approach, based on accessibility and willingness to participate. The survey was applied in a standardized manner to maintain uniformity in data gathering conditions. Responses were recorded and organized into a structured dataset format, where each row represents an individual firm and each column corresponds to a specific variable or survey item. The resulting dataset reflects a cross-sectional snapshot of managerial practices and perceived competitiveness among SMEs in the study region. All data were collected in accordance with ethical research standards, ensuring voluntary participation, informed consent, and anonymity of respondents.