When and why regional clusters become basic building blocks of modern economy

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the modern cluster theory and the specific features of regional innovation clusters as complex adaptive systems. Clusters have become a typical pattern of industrial organization in national economies under their transition to innovation-driven model of growth. We provide an overview of the contribution of various theoretical frameworks (evolutionary theory, spatial development theory, theory of technological change and system innovation, and Porter’s competitiveness theory) to the cluster concept and consider the latter from the perspective of complexity economics. On this basis, we differentiate true clusters from their nominal counterparts and propose three analytical dimensions to explore clusters, namely, as a special class of industrial agglomerations, as a special class of innovation ecosystems, and as a special class of economic projects (cluster initiatives). We examine the properties of clusters corresponding to each class and demonstrate their role in the geographical and functional fragmentation of production, in the integration of local exporters into global value chains, and in bridging communication gaps and developing collaboration among economic agents. We show that clusters occupy a central place among various types of business networks and have a comparative edge making them key building blocks of the modern industrial landscape. Further, we explain how the innovation capacity of clusters is affected by network synergy effects arising from the triple-helix pattern of collaboration among their participants. Finally, we draw conclusions regarding national cluster supporting policies, including those applied in modern Russia.

Decomposition of Factors of Innovative Development of Regional-Oriented Production Systems

“…Вертикальные и горизонтальные связи способствуют как преодолению организационной разобщенности, так и достижению синергетического эффекта. Мировой опыт свидетельствует, что темпы роста производства в формате кластерных систем существенно выше, чем в среднем по отраслям [16]. Наибольшие успехи демонстрируют кластеры с участием представителей научно-образовательного сектора.…”

Application of Regional Commodity Based Innovation Clusters to Improve SMEs Performance in Regional Superior Products

“…However, the reality of developing innovation clusters so far poses many challenges. First, the challenge is that the influence of innovation capabilities on SME performance is positive [6], but has not included the role of innovation clusters [7]. Second, the challenge comes from the fact that every SME competes with each other [8].…”

“…This study aims to fill the research gap by considering the role of innovation clusters as a moderator variable in the relationship between innovation capability and SME performance, which has not been adequately addressed in previous studies [7]. The addition of the innovation cluster variable as a moderation variable is a novel aspect of this study, which may provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of implementing innovation clusters to improve SMEs' performance in Indonesia.…”

Analysis of Functional Complexity as a Factor of Sustainability of the Regional Economy Based on the Ecosystem Approach

“…CAS -это сетевые сообщества, которые состоят из обособленных, но функционально связанных агентов. Для них характерны способность к самоорганизации и самообновлению без участия управляющего агента, адаптация друг под друга и под окружающую среду через сигналы обратной связи, эмерджентность поведения [4]. Естественно предположить, что для исследования этих сложных систем необходим инструментарий, отличный от применяемого в неоклассическом анализе.…”