Clusters and Cluster Policy Models: Driving Competitiveness in the Global Economy

Combining insights from classical and modern economic theories, this book presents a comprehensive analysis of cluster policies and models from a global perspective. Arkadiusz Kowalski draws on detailed case studies from developed and emerging economies, emphasising the role of clusters in enhancing economic competitiveness and innovation. Chapters examine how clusters have evolved from Michael E. Porter’s original approach, shedding light on definitional problems arising from the diversity of cluster policies and proposing a novel theoretical framework for cluster analysis. Kowalski explores various paths of cluster evolution and introduces the Policy Approach and Cluster Structure Integrated Model, a systematic taxonomy for classifying different cluster models. Ultimately, the book highlights the importance of tailoring cluster development strategies to specific national and regional contexts, considering factors such as institutional settings, economic development levels and industry needs. Students and academics in economics, business and management, human geography and innovation studies will benefit from the book’s detailed coverage of cluster theories, empirical case studies and practical applications. It is also an invaluable read for policymakers, government officials, business leaders and industry practitioners.

Table of Contents:
Contents Introduction: the thematic area, research problem, and the scope of the monograph 1 Exploring the theoretical background of clusters 2 The anatomy of clusters: definitions, typologies and characteristics 3 Dimensions of taxonomy of clusters and cluster policy models 4 Case studies of developed countries representing different cluster models 5 Emerging market perspectives: case studies of clusters and cluster policy in developing countries 6 Conclusions to Clusters and Cluster Policy Models Bibliography

About the Author :
Arkadiusz Michał Kowalski, Associate Professor, World Economy Research Institute, SGH Warsaw School of Economics, Poland

Review :
‘This book provides an in-depth analysis of economic clusters, covering theoretical background, definitions, typologies, and policy frameworks. With case studies from both developed and emerging markets, the book offers valuable insights into how clusters drive regional competitiveness and economic growth in a globalized economy. It is essential reading for scholars and policymakers alike.’ ‘This book offers a fresh and insightful contribution to the literature on clusters by exploring cluster dynamics and promotion policies across various countries, with a particular focus on the emergence of a new generation of clusters following the pioneering studies of Michael Porter and other leading scholars in the field.’ ‘With rich and diverse perspectives from five developed and five emerging economies, this book provides a thorough understanding of the emergence and development of globally competitive clusters. A must-read for all academics who seek fresh theoretical insights, and cluster managers and policymakers who search for tips to build great clusters.’ ‘This book offers a fresh and insightful contribution to the literature on clusters by exploring cluster dynamics and promotion policies across various countries, with a particular focus on the emergence of a new generation of clusters following the pioneering studies of Michael Porter and other leading scholars in the field.’ ‘Cluster policies have become consolidated as a popular tool in the economic development toolkit over recent decades. Through analysis of ten cases of cluster policy in a diverse set of countries and proposing a taxonomy of cluster policy models, this book makes an important contribution to making sense of the wide variety of ways in which cluster policies are currently applied around the world.’ ‘Three decades after Michael Porter introduced clusters as a concept to a new generation of economic development practitioners, a wide array of approaches has developed across a heterogeneous set of economies and clusters. Arkadiusz Kowalski takes us on a journey that visits a mix of case examples that reflects this breadth of experiences. His book represents an important step towards developing a robust framework to organize and understand these differences, and learn from them to inform cluster policy action that is appropriate given the specific circumstances of a given place and sector. It makes fruitful reading both for experienced cluster researchers and practitioners as well as for those that are new to this field.’ ‘The spatial concentration of companies and supporting organisations in the same or related sectors in clusters is now an established part of economic development and innovation policy. With this knowledgeable book, Arkadiusz Kowalski presents the most ambitious contribution to international comparative cluster policy research to date. Similarities and differences between ten countries across the globe are systematically analysed and condensed into five continental types of cluster policy against the background of different institutional environments. These unique insights into the colourful variety of cluster policy are highly recommended reading for policymakers, practitioners, academics and students interested in the geographical sources of competitiveness and its promotion.’