Innovation of Women Farmers: A Technological Proposal for Mezcalilleras' Sustainability in Mexico, Based on Knowledge Management

Currently, technology usage is a fundamental asset for creating, developing, and implementing innovations; however, these are not available to everyone, which is accentuated in women with agricultural occupations. The present study develops a proposal of technologies for mezcalilleras' sustainability from Oaxaca, Mexico, based on a knowledge management methodology, through the application of questionnaires in face-to-face sessions, field visits, and statistical analysis to explore the imbalances enclosed in the agave-mezcal activity seen as its problems, failures, and barriers, as well as its correlation with the identified technological routes. The results reveal that a technological platform creation, the fabrication of fiber optic refractometer, a metal roof construction, the design of a horizontal distiller-fractionator, the employment of metal containers and production of glass bottles, and the generation of a software and an application, are the suitable technologies, according to the mezcalilleras' requirements. This proposal can be important for academics, policymakers, and producers who wish to revitalize traditional knowledge of the small-scale sectors in Mexico through new ways of interaction with external agents and customers, new ways of production, and previous years' production analysis.

Automated summary

The study proposes a technology solution for sustainability of mezcal producers in Oaxaca, Mexico, using knowledge management methodology. Through questionnaires, field visits, and statistical analysis, the study explores issues and barriers in the agave-mezcal industry, recommending suitable technologies for the producers' needs.