Revisiting The Software Industry In Costa Rica: Achievements And Challenges

Abstract

Costa Rica's economy like that of many developing and developed nations is largely service-based. The information and communication technologies (ICT) sector plays an increasingly key role in strengthening the service aspect of the economy. A large part of the ICT sector is the software sector. This study is an update of a review of that sector’s contributions conducted in 2008. In that effort, software producers’ characteristics and needs were investigated. The current article investigates the evolution of the sector and its competitive position in the business sector. The study is national in scope and represents a random sample of firms in the industry. The findings highlight the achievements and remaining challenges for the industry and provide public policy recommendations.