Journal of the Department of Management, Economics and Finance of the Bolivian Catholic University “San Pablo”, Cochabamba Campus.
La Revista Perspectivas de la Universidad Católica Boliviana, es una revista de acceso abierto, por lo tanto, es de libre acceso en su integridad. Está permitida su lectura, búsqueda, descarga, distribución y reutilización legal en cualquier tipo de soporte únicamente para fines no comerciales, siempre y cuando la obra sea debidamente citada.
This issue of Revista Perspectivas presents seven research studies addressing critical phenomena in business management, applied economics, consumer behavior, and organizational development within the contexts of Bolivia and Peru. The opening articles explore academic productivity among university researchers and analyze inequality in Bolivia, identifying labor income as its primary determinant. In the fields of marketing and technology, the studies examine the mediating role of trust in fashion purchase decisions and the quality factors driving satisfaction in mobile banking. The section on human capital validates the relationship between emotional intelligence and job performance, while also offering a systematic review of talent retention in corporations. Finally, this edition concludes with an analysis of the success and failure factors of Bolivian startups, highlighting the importance of post-pandemic financial education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Revista Perspectivas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Success and Failure of Entrepreneurship in Bolivia: Post-Pandemic Financial Education
In recent years, Bolivia has witnessed a remarkable increase in the number of people who decide to start their own businesses, driven by necessity, creativity, and the pursuit of economic independence. However, the rate of business closure remains high: thousands of enterprises shut down annually due to a lack of planning, financial knowledge, and technical training. This article analyzes the main factors that determine the success or failure of entrepreneurship in Bolivia, taking as a starting point the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent productive recovery. Based on a review of reports from FUNDEMPRESA, INE, ECLAC, and specialized literature, the study identifies the most frequent mistakes made during the initial stages of business creation and proposes a model centered on financial education and strategic management as key tools for sustainability. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of strengthening entrepreneurial capacities through higher education, fostering a solid, innovative, and socially responsible business culture.
Determinants of Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Mobile Banking: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis in Bolivia
Mobile banking is a digital service that has experienced continuous growth and development, creating a pressing need to understand the factors influencing user satisfaction with this service in the current context. The main objective of this research was to determine the factors influencing mobile banking customer satisfaction in the municipality of Cercado, Cochabamba. The study was conducted using the deductive method, under a quantitative approach with a descriptive and correlational nature, using the American Customer Satisfaction Index model as a theoretical basis. Through the application of a structured survey and analysis via structural equation modeling, variables such as expectations, perceived quality, and perceived value were evaluated. The results concluded that the customer expectation variable does not have a direct effect on satisfaction. However, it was evidenced that perceived quality and perceived value were the most influential variables on customer satisfaction and, consequently, on customer loyalty, demonstrating that factors such as reliability, responsiveness, and security are crucial for mobile banking in the region.
Emotional intelligence and job performance in employees of the Unión Company, Peru
Emotional intelligence is an essential competency for optimizing job performance in modern organizations. This study analyzes the relationship between emotional intelligence and job performance among employees of the Unión company in Peru, emphasizing its role in improving effectiveness, motivation, and interpersonal relationships. Based on a theoretical review and a descriptive-correlational approach applied to 180 employees, the study reveals that the appropriate management of one's own and others' emotions contributes to a positive work environment, strengthens resilience to organizational demands, and reduces workplace conflicts. Furthermore, emotional intelligence contributes to the development of an organizational culture focused on productivity, innovation, and institutional commitment. In conclusion, strengthening emotional competencies is a strategic factor for sustainable performance and organizational success.
Social Media Advertising and Purchase Decision: The Mediating Role of Trust in Fashion Brands in Huancayo, 2025
The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of social media advertising on purchasing decisions, considering the mediating role of trust in fashion brands in the city of Huancayo, 2025. A quantitative, basic-applied approach and a non-experimental cross-sectional design were used. The information was obtained through structured surveys administered to 200 fashion consumers and analyzed using multivariate techniques such as exploratory factor analysis, Omega coefficient, and structural equation modeling with bootstrap. The results demonstrated a direct and significant relationship between social media advertising and purchasing decisions, mediated by brand trust, explaining a relevant proportion of the variance in trust (R² = 0,338) and purchasing decisions (R² = 0,504). It was concluded that strengthening trust through authentic advertising strategies increases the effectiveness of digital marketing in the fashion sector.
Unraveling the enigma of academic productivity: Key factors among researchers at the Bolivian Catholic University
Research on the factors influencing researcher productivity in impoverished contexts, such as Bolivia, is scarce. This research seeks to identify the determinants of productivity among researchers at the Bolivian Catholic University. To this end, we conducted a quantitative study to determine the impact of these determinants on productivity. After running several econometric models, we found that having diversified networks, regularly participating in international conferences, and having access to diverse resources increase researcher productivity. The results of this research contribute to social network and social capital theory by demonstrating that the concentration of co-authorship networks acts as a structural brake on innovation and academic visibility, especially in emerging contexts like Bolivia.
Inequality in Bolivia: A Shapley counterfactual decomposition using microdata from the 2024 household survey
This research aims to estimate the counterfactual decomposition of the Gini coefficient and related factors in income distribution and the labor market in Bolivia. To this end, a methodology was used that includes estimating the Gini coefficient, the kernel function, and Shapley decomposition, based on data from the 2024 Household Survey of the National Institute of Statistics. The estimated Gini coefficient for Bolivia is 0.4158, indicating a moderate level of inequality. When considering the area of ​​residence, a notable difference is observed between urban areas, where the coefficient is 0.38, and rural areas, which reach 0.498. The department of Santa Cruz shows the lowest coefficient, 0.37, reflecting a more equitable income distribution. On the other hand, Potosí registers the highest value, 0.483. The bandwidth, which is 96.2385, suggests that each income value influences the density estimate of nearby values ​​within a range of ±96.24 units. The results obtained through the Shapley decomposition of the Gini coefficient show that labor income explains 94% of total inequality in Bolivia in 2024, making it the almost absolute determinant of the prediction. The model depends primarily on income from work.
This issue presents eight studies that contribute to the analysis of management, economics, education, leadership, technology, and social behavior. The first articles focus on higher education, highlighting students’ limited practical understanding of CSR, the effectiveness of project-based learning in strengthening self-efficacy, the validation of a scale for leadership oriented toward the common good, and the factors influencing university dropout. In the macroeconomic and social sphere, the findings reveal a persistent real exchange rate misalignment in Argentina and examine the emotional and social impacts of the fuel crisis in Santa Cruz. Finally, the issue explores key elements for designing an app aimed at DINK users and the influence of social media on consumer behavior in the barbershop sector in Cochabamba.
Copyright (c) 2025 Revista Perspectivas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Analysis of social networks and their influence on consumer behavior within the barbering sector in the municipality of Cercado, Cochabamba
This paper aims to analyze the use of social media in the male grooming sector, specifically in barbershops located in the municipality of Cercado, Cochabamba. In the face of a competitive and growing market, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was applied to examine consumers’ perceptions and their influence on digital adoption. Based on the collected data, the impact of these platforms on customer behavior was evaluated, and strategies were proposed to enhance business performance. As a result, an adjustment to the original model was made, providing an adaptation tailored to the needs of the local sector.
Determinants of University Dropout in the Commercial Engineering Program at UATF – Potosí: A Structural Analysis
University dropout is a complex issue in higher education, with social, economic, and institutional effects. This study analyzed the factors influencing dropout in the Commercial Engineering program at the Universidad Autónoma Tomás Frías (UATF), using a quantitative approach with structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The sample consisted of 108 students who responded to a structured questionnaire based on a Likert scale. The results showed that academic, motivational, economic, and family factors significantly affect the intention to drop out, while social and health factors did not demonstrate a determining influence. The model explained 48.1% of the variance in student dropout, providing moderate predictive capacity. The importance–performance analysis highlighted the need to strengthen academic support programs, student motivation, scholarships, and family accompaniment. It is concluded that dropout is a multifactorial phenomenon, whose reduction requires preventive, inclusive, and sustainable institutional strategies.
Analysis of the Influence of Information, Aesthetics, and Functionality on User Engagement: Design of an App for the DINK Lifestyle
This study aims to develop a digital guide in the form of a mobile application (APP) for services and products tailored to the DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids) lifestyle, based on the identification of their characteristics and representation within the population. Through a descriptive statistical analysis and a regression model, the research explores the relationship between three key variables—information, aesthetics, and functionality—and their influence on user engagement. The findings support the creation of MARKETAPP, a value proposal designed to showcase spaces and services aligned with the preferences of this emerging lifestyle segment. Notably, the city of Colima lacks establishments explicitly targeting DINKs, highlighting the relevance and potential impact of this application in promoting inclusion and market innovation.
Scarcity and anxiety: Multidimensional impact and citizen profiles in the face of the fuel crisis in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
His research analyzes the multidimensional impact of the fuel shortage in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, during 2025. Based on a quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive design, 534 participants were surveyed, including users of private, public, and commercial vehicles. The study assessed economic losses, social tensions, emotional stress, mobility disruptions, and political perceptions. Results show widespread effects: 71% reported significant financial losses, 81% waited over three hours to refuel, and 67% experienced high levels of anxiety. Through cluster analysis, three citizen response profiles emerged: (1) moderately affected with passive strategies, (2) low-impact minimizers, and (3) highly affected and reactive individuals, who engaged in fuel hoarding, informal market usage, and expressed strong political dissatisfaction. Multivariate tests (MANOVA) confirmed statistically significant differences between groups (p < .001). Behavioral responses were mainly reactive and defensive, perpetuating the cycle of scarcity. Distrust in government measures was high (78%), and pessimism about the future intensified (84%). The study concludes that the fuel crisis goes beyond supply issues, affecting social cohesion, emotional stability, and institutional credibility. Policy recommendations include targeted strategies by cluster profile, energy diversification, cultural adaptation campaigns, and the creation of strategic reserves to mitigate future fuel shortages.
Common good leadership: adaptation of a scale and its validation
The objective of this study is to adapt the scale of leadership for the common good in two ways: first, by theoretically reformulating some of the dimensions and, based on this, adequate the items used; second, by deepening the validation of the underlying measurement model through a confirmatory factor analysis. The 7-point Likert-type instrument was applied to a sample of 658 university students where 62.9% were men and 37.1% women, all of them with ages ranging from 18 to 26 years. After some adjustments, the result is an adaptation of the leadership for the common good measurement scale with ten dimensions that measure both the ideal and the real, and also presents good psychometric properties of reliability and validity.
Entrepreneurship Education to Develop Self-Efficacy for Self-Regulated Learning: comparative study between teaching techniques in mexican undergraduate students
Entrepreneurship Education faces great challenges. The main objective is to compare teaching techniques to promote skills development in Mexican undergraduate entrepreneurship students, for this purpose, 3 teaching techniques were compared to develop skills: project-based learning, gamification and master class. In the methods section, an experimental design was proposed through a randomized student’s sample with the dependent variable, self-efficacy, and the independent variable, self-regulation for learning. Afterward, the quantitative data was collected with a survey and analyzed with factor analysis and structural equations. It was found that the use of project-based learning shows an impact on the measured construct. In the discussion, active techniques favor skills development, but not all techniques have the same impact on all constructs.
An Estimate of Real Exchange Misalignment for Argentina 1980-2022
Given the methodological limitations present in most studies on exchange rate misalignment in Argentina, such as the omission of structural break analysis in the series or the lack of operationalization of the equilibrium real exchange rate (ERER), this paper proposes to estimate the REER for the period 1980-2022 and thereby construct the exchange rate misalignment series for this period. To do so, the ARDL cointegration methodology is used, with the relative terms of trade, external debt, public spending, and productivity being the significant determinants of the RER. Comparing this with the observed RER yields a complete series of misalignments for the period under analysis, consistent with the economic events that occurred during that period. It is worth highlighting the detection of an exchange rate lag since 2010, which could not be reversed even with the devaluations of 2014 and 2015, and which reached its peak after COVID-19. The results suggest maintaining consistent and sustainable fiscal, exchange rate, and monetary policies to ensure stability and prevent economic crises.
Relationship between the theoretical interpretation of Corporate Social Responsibility and knowledge about its practical application: the perspective of students of management careers
The objective of this study is to evaluate the knowledge acquired by management students regarding the theoretical interpretation of Corporate Social Responsibility, its practical application, and the relationship between the two. A self-administered questionnaire was administered to 359 students from three of these programs at a Colombian university. The questionnaire included a battery of 18 indicators on Corporate Social Responsibility practices and a closed question, in which students were given the choice between six different definitions of the concept. It was found that a significant portion of students have limited knowledge about the practical application of the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility, and that this situation does not differ significantly by program and year. It was also found that students adhere to different definitions of the concept, and that the way they define it influences their knowledge about its practical application.
Human talent and job performance in Peruvian companies: Systematic review 2017-2024
This study analyzes the relationship between human talent management and job performance in Peruvian organizations, both in the public and private sectors, through a systematic review of research published between 2017 and 2024. Thirty-one scientific studies found in academic databases were reviewed, covering populations ranging from 18 to 299 workers belonging to municipalities, commercial companies, health sector entities, and other organizations. The results show that practices such as continuous training, performance evaluation, motivation, and staff retention have a positive association with job performance, reflected in correlation coefficients ranging from 0.027 to 0.907. However, limitations related to the availability of resources, resistance to organizational change, and methodological heterogeneity of the studies analyzed were also identified. It is concluded that human talent management is positively associated with job performance in Peruvian organizations, with this relationship being more consistent in contexts where such practices are institutionalized, highlighting their importance as a strategic axis for improving organizational performance.
This issue of Revista Perspectivas features five research articles addressing core issues in the economic and business fields. The topics include the influence of emotions, culture, and financial literacy on well-being and happiness; an evaluation of regulatory cycles in Bolivia’s electricity and telecommunications sectors; the design of a business incubator model tailored to the country’s context; an analysis of unemployment from the perspective of those directly affected in Tarija; and the economic valuation of a funeral home using financial and accounting methods. These contributions offer valuable insights for improving public policy and business strategies.
Copyright (c) 2015 Revista Perspectivas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Economic valuation of the funeral home company "Celestial Ltda." to determine its sale price
This thesis project aims to assign an economic value to the funeral home company “Celestial Ltda.” that can serve as a foundation for negotiating its sale price. To achieve this, an external, internal, and financial analysis of the company was carried out using research and analysis tools. After completing these analyses, the company’s economic value was determined through two different types of valuation methods: the profitability-based method and the accounting method. The Discounted Free Cash Flow method was applied as the profitability-based approach, projected over five future periods using assumptions and mathematical models. The accounting method used was the Book Value of Equity, calculated with data from the most recent historical period.
Unemployment is one of the most significant social problems for any country or region, considering the effects it has on the individuals involved, businesses or institutions, and society as a whole. Understanding the characteristics of unemployment becomes complex but essential, as this situation can be analyzed from various areas of knowledge or perspectives, each offering valuable contributions to the issue. This study offers an overview of this reality from the perspective of those who experience it—that is, the viewpoint of unemployed individuals. The study considers various aspects such as general data to frame the problem, a description of public policies aimed at reducing unemployment, the sociodemographic characteristics of unemployed individuals, proposed solutions, job search methods, desired job characteristics, types of unemployment, key factors influencing job attainment, and finally, the effects of unemployment on individuals and their families.
This article aims to develop a model that can systematize the processes of business incubators in Cochabamba. It was developed through a descriptive and propositional study. Successful incubation models were reviewed and adapted to the reality and characteristics of our country; therefore, the model can also be adapted for different departments across the country, as well as for various sectors of the economy.
Regulatory periods in Bolivia (Causal analysis for Electricity and Telecommunications)
This document aims to present the regulatory periods experienced by two regulated infrastructure sectors in Bolivia, initially under the Sectoral Regulation System (SIRESE) and later by the Authorities for Oversight and Social Control in Electricity and Telecommunications. This evaluation provides an approximation of the regulatory contribution to coverage during periods that defined a regulatory cycle in these two sectors. By assessing this regulatory experience, the goal is to identify measures that strengthen Economic Regulation in Bolivia, improve its performance, or allow for a reassessment of the importance of its presence in the markets.
Behavioral finance, financial literacy, and their impact on financial decision-making, economic well-being, and happiness
This research analyzes the effect of behavioral finance, emotions, culture, economic decisions, and financial literacy on: a) economic well-being; and b) people's happiness. In the past, it was believed that individuals were rational and their decisions were not influenced by contextual effects. However, these theories fail to explain strange and irrational economic behaviors. Later research demonstrated that people are not rational and their decisions are influenced by contextual factors. Based on these findings, the present study uses psychological, cultural, and emotional variables to more accurately reflect people's economic behavior. To quantify and test the theory, empirical data were used in combination with multivariate and factor analysis. The study found evidence that emotions, culture, economic decisions, and financial literacy influence people's economic well-being and happiness.
This issue of Revista Perspectivas features eight articles written by university professionals and professors, addressing key topics in economic and business sciences. The papers explore the evolution of economic thought and marketing, methodologies for demand projection, and reflections on economic externalities. The issue also highlights contributions on product theory, information systems, holistic student development, and the importance of mental health in personal and work life. The journal aims to enrich academic debate and encourage research in these vital areas.
Copyright (c) 2006 Revista Perspectivas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Mental health...from the emotional to the work-related
The concept of health in medicine includes a state of mental, physical, and social well-being and balance. These elements may make it seem unattainable, but at the same time, they ensure its constant pursuit, driven by desire. This is what allows us to live and becomes the reference point that guides and moves us. When we don't embrace it and let ourselves be carried away by our supposed ignorance, we fall into a series of repetitions that turn into a “vicious circle,” from which we see ourselves as victims. It is important to find a way to prefer the desire to know oneself in order to find our Mental Health.
"Philosophical reference article for the improvement of the learning assessment system in business sciences programs"
This article addresses the educational field, which must be supported by the educator's philosophical knowledge and understanding. It aims to consider the learner as a whole human being in the development of their life project and professionalization plan, enabling them to perform effectively, efficiently, and successfully in social and work contexts, developing fully according to their human nature and professional field.
Information systems as a strategic weapon in business management
Information systems are tools for managing information, and their development and implementation must consider the company's needs while aligning with its goals, mission, and vision. Once operational, they become a resource that provides timely, reliable, and accurate information for decision-making in the company’s modern context. The current changes in strategic planning highlight the need to plan information systems by considering how information technology can help us gain competitive advantages that lead to optimal business management. This article aims to show the possible steps to follow when discussing the strategic planning of an information system.
Many brand managers rightly view the product as the core of their responsibilities, since it is essential to managing their duties. However, the text encourages a broader theoretical approach to the product, one that goes beyond its physical and tangible limitations. It suggests that brand managers should consider strategic aspects such as product life cycle, pricing, market segmentation, and distribution. Ultimately, the product should be understood not only as a physical entity but as an essence, beyond its material being.
Application of economic instruments and government intervention in the problem of externalities (U.S. and Argentina)
This paper begins with a brief overview of the serious problems of environmental degradation in various countries and its harmful effects on human health. It also highlights the advances made in the theory of identifying and researching economic instruments to control externalities. Finally, it presents a review of two case studies: the United States, focusing on the application of economic instruments, and Argentina, emphasizing the approach of government intervention.
The linearization of curves for demand forecasting
The purpose of this work is to obtain results for forecasting demand or supply by considering curves that do not behave linearly but can be linearized. Many real-life data sets follow parabolic, exponential, geometric trajectories, etc.; thus, it is necessary to approximate them to linear trends, aided by linear regression theory and least squares methods. This article explains the analysis and calculation methodology suitable for these cases, clarifying the situation with relevant examples to demonstrate its applicability and usefulness in numerous market studies where demand and supply forecasting is required