On defining the concept of clusters as an integrated structure in the production sphere of activity

The economic space requires a continuous response to various processes taking place on the territory of the country. Various processes in macro and microeconomics, the subsequent pandemic have demonstrated the effectiveness of large integrated structures capable of maintaining profitability in the market and increasing the scope of their interests. Clusters, due to their applicability and effectiveness in various fields of activity, have demonstrated their effectiveness, thanks to which these structures are widespread and applicable all over the world. It is established that the definition of «cluster» in the Russian economy does not have a single definition standard, which greatly complicates the formation of this integrated structure. The question of the study is whether the definition of a cluster structure is able to solve the prospects for applying this definition in the Russian economy. In this paper, a hypothesis is also put forward about the ability to define the definition of «cluster». The scientific hypothesis of this study suggests that the definition of a cluster will provide an opportunity to accurately define this definition, which will contribute to its popularization and development in the country's economy. Within the framework of this question, the purpose of the study is formed – ​the study of literary sources to establish a standard for the definition of an integrated association of enterprises. The methodological basis was the works of foreign and Russian scientists on the topic under study. In the course of the study, the author found that the category «cluster» has received many interpretations and modifications over its history of development. Based on the studied data, it was concluded that the cluster has common characteristic features, however, in these interpretations, the main, in our opinion, managerial aspect of the formation of an integrated structure is missing, which makes it necessary to approve a new definition – ​«cluster structure». The resulting category can be used to form a new stage in the creation of integrated associations and the development of a strategy for the development of cluster structures of the Russian economy.