Lean Startup Approach in Technology Service Micro-enterprises in the State of Mexico 17 9

Abstract

Technology service startups in the State of Mexico currently operate in a highly competitive environment characterized by constant digital transformation, financial limitations, and increasing innovation demands. In this context, Lean Engineering emerges as a strategic approach focused on process optimization, waste reduction, and organizational adaptability. This study analyzes how technology startups in the State of Mexico adopt Lean principles and agile methodologies to improve organizational performance and strengthen their market sustainability. The research identifies that many small technology companies face challenges related to project management, lack of strategic planning, resistance to change, limited specialized human resources, and insufficient integration of agile methodologies into operational processes. Additionally, the need to rapidly respond to customer demands generates constant pressure on software development and digital service teams. Several Mexican technology companies have started implementing Lean approaches, Scrum frameworks, and automation strategies to improve operational efficiency and productivity. The Lean Engineering approach enables startups to eliminate non-value-added activities, improve delivery times, and promote a culture of continuous improvement. Furthermore, it encourages multidisciplinary collaboration, incremental innovation, and data-driven decision-making. Recent studies indicate that technology startups often experience high failure rates due to organizational immaturity, limited resources, and weaknesses in software engineering practices.  Therefore, the adoption of Lean and agile methodologies can significantly increase operational efficiency and regional competitiveness. Another major issue identified among startups in the State of Mexico is the challenge of balancing technological innovation with efficient human talent management. Experiences shared by professionals in the technology sector indicate that improper implementation of agile methodologies may lead to employee burnout, excessive meetings, and project delays when organizational management is inadequate.  This demonstrates that Lean Engineering implementation requires strategic leadership, clear business objectives, and an organizational culture focused on adaptability. The study concludes that Lean Engineering represents a viable alternative for strengthening the growth of technology service startups in the State of Mexico, as it facilitates resource optimization, improves service quality, and promotes continuous innovation. Likewise, the importance of developing both human and technical competencies is recognized in order to address digital transformation challenges and consolidate sustainable business models within the regional technological ecosystem.