Strategic Integration and Governance: The Contribution of the Cerne 4 Model to the Development of a Technology Park Strategic Plan

Abstract

This article presents an action research study that analyzes the contribution of implementing the Cerne Model to the development of the strategic plan and governance of the Viçosa Technology Park (tecnoPARQ/UFV). The study details how tecnoPARQ integrated Cerne into its business model, which uses the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) from the Quintuple Helix perspective, seeking to improve its management and impact on the innovation ecosystem. The management model implementation process involved tecnoPARQ's tactical and operational teams in cycles of diagnosis, planning, execution, monitoring, and validation, ensuring a practical and cooperative approach. Adopting the Cerne 4 best practice model was essential to promoting process standardization and efficiency, strategic alignment, and strengthening governance. Although the journey presented challenges, the lessons learned highlight the importance of engaged leadership and continuous communication. The results demonstrate significant growth for tecnoPARQ and its affiliated companies from 2019 to 2024, with a more than 400% increase in company revenue, a 256% increase in job creation, and a 78% expansion in the number of companies. These indicators demonstrate the effectiveness of the adopted management model. tecnoPARQ's experience in obtaining Cerne’s highest-level certification for its Incubation Program positions it among the leading national parks and offers an operationally replicable and adaptable model. This work provides a practical roadmap for innovation ecosystem managers and public policymakers, demonstrating how management maturity catalyzes strategic execution and drives tangible results in the development of innovative environments.