Determinants of human capital sustainability in SMEs: the case of the cities of Bucaramanga, Montería, and Palmira Determinantes de la sostenibilidad del capital humano en las pymes: caso de las ciudades de Bucaramanga, Montería y Palmira

Abstract

To investigate the current state of human capital in small and mediumsized
enterprises across several Colombian regions, drawing on research background
applied in business activity. Methodology. The research employs a quantitative approach
to characterize the structuring of human capital, labor composition, roles in human capital
positions, and strategies for its improvement in small and medium-sized enterprises. Twenty
closed-ended survey questions were used to gather data from a sample of 523 small and
medium-sized businesses in the Monteria, Bucaramanga and Palmira regions. Five-point
Likert-type frequency scales were employed, previously validated through expert assessment,
achieving a Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of 0.940. The survey was processed with
SPSS software. Results. The findings highlight the most relevant human capital management
strategies, the strengths and drawbacks of various recruitment methods, training processes,
remuneration schemes, and labor relations. Conclusions. The research posits that various
approaches to human capital are influenced by the local culture and the economic capacity
of the companies involved. Furthermore, it suggests that in a rapidly changing business
environment, managers and those responsible for human capital are vital for success through
their leadership and training.