Strategy to evaluate the efficiency of projects in ecuadorian public universities

Introduction: Ecuadorian public universities face the challenge of evaluating research as a core function, where projects play a predominant role. It is essential for these projects to meet their scope, adhere to the stipulated timeframe, and manage the budget efficiently, while also ensuring beneficiary satisfaction. The objective of this study was to develop a strategy to measure the efficiency of processes that contributes to improving the evaluation of R&D&I projects in Ecuadorian public universities. Methods: A mixed-methods research approach was adopted, with an explanatory scope and a non-experimental design. The study was structured around the establishment of theoretical foundations, applying documentary analysis, diagnosing the evaluation processes related to the efficiency of R&D&I projects in Ecuadorian public universities through a questionnaire, and proposing a strategy along with its pre-validation based on expert judgment. Results: The findings reveal deficiencies in the indicators of time, budget, and scope, leading to the design of an evaluation strategy to measure the efficiency of R&D&I projects in Ecuadorian public universities.