The strategic planning of the Portoviejo GAD in the development and projection of the canton

Abstract

This research analyzes the impact of strategic planning implemented by the Decentralized Autonomous Government (GAD) of Portoviejo on the development of the canton through a mixed methodological approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques such as documentary analysis, interviews with experts in territorial planning, and surveys applied to 384 inhabitants of Portoviejo. The study starts from the recognition of the normative framework that promotes an articulated, participatory and Good Living oriented state planning; however, it identifies significant gaps between the formulation of strategic plans and their practical implementation. Among the main findings are structural limitations such as weak intergovernmental articulation, low institutionalization of public policy evaluation mechanisms, limited citizen participation and insufficient technical training of personnel. Interviews with experts revealed that, despite the existence of instruments, implementation faces budgetary and operational restrictions. In turn, the surveys reflected moderately positive perceptions regarding the benefits of planning, although with a high level of neutrality, which suggests a lack of knowledge and misinformation about planning processes. It also highlights the institutional response after the 2016 earthquake, which allowed incorporating resilience and risk management approaches in urban planning. The study concludes that in order to move towards a more sustainable, inclusive and effective territorial development in Portoviejo, it is required to strengthen the institutional capacity of the GAD, consolidate a culture of results-oriented evaluation and promote citizen participation as a fundamental axis in strategic decision making.