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Engineering Change in Mexico: The Adoption of Computer Technology at Grupo ICA (1965-1971)

Author

Listed:
  • Batiz-Lazo, Bernardo
  • Haigh, Thomas

Abstract

This article documents the adoption of computer technology by a civil engineering services and construction company in Mexico at the time that it became the first Mexican multinational enterprise. Computerization took place independently of cross border growth. The challenges, failures and successes of computerization attest to the transformation in the use of computer applications from the mechanization of routine procedures to the creative use of these applications. In line with company policy, the latter lead to the establishment of the computer centre as a standalone, profit generating business unit. However, this policy responded to ‘laissez faire’ and fiscal (i.e. minimizing tax payments) rather than strategic considerations. To little surprise computer services never grew to be a significant income stream.

Suggested Citation

  • Batiz-Lazo, Bernardo & Haigh, Thomas, 2009. "Engineering Change in Mexico: The Adoption of Computer Technology at Grupo ICA (1965-1971)," MPRA Paper 20339, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:20339
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    File URL: https://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de/20339/1/MPRA_paper_20339.pdf
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Computer centers; History; Data processing; Computer integrated engineering; Mexico;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • N8 - Economic History - - Micro-Business History
    • N76 - Economic History - - Economic History: Transport, International and Domestic Trade, Energy, and Other Services - - - Latin America; Caribbean
    • N66 - Economic History - - Manufacturing and Construction - - - Latin America; Caribbean
    • N86 - Economic History - - Micro-Business History - - - Latin America; Caribbean

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