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Geographical clustering and the evaluation of cluster policies: introduction

Author

Listed:
  • Uwe Cantner

    (Friedrich Schiller University Jena
    University of Southern Denmark)

  • Holger Graf

    (Friedrich Schiller University Jena)

  • Michael Rothgang

    (RWI - Leibniz Institute for Economic Research)

Abstract

The article introduces the special section on “Geographical Clustering and the Evaluation of Cluster Policies”. We first provide a motivation of cluster policies and briefly review the state of the art in cluster evaluation research. We proceed with summaries of the papers comprising the special section, which take different perspectives and cover distinct facets of cluster policy evaluation. The papers identify challenges for evaluation by highlighting the variety of approaches towards cluster policies addressed at different policy levels. Additional challenges for an identification of policy impact result from the complexity as well as the timing of policy effects. Thus, proper evaluations should employ and combine a broad set of evaluation methods. Based on the main lessons learned, we finally propose several avenues for future research to cope with these challenges.

Suggested Citation

  • Uwe Cantner & Holger Graf & Michael Rothgang, 2019. "Geographical clustering and the evaluation of cluster policies: introduction," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 44(6), pages 1665-1672, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jtecht:v:44:y:2019:i:6:d:10.1007_s10961-018-9666-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s10961-018-9666-4
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    15. Tina Wolf & Uwe Cantner & Holger Graf & Michael Rothgang, 2019. "Cluster ambidexterity towards exploration and exploitation: strategies and cluster management," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 44(6), pages 1840-1866, December.
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    Cited by:

    1. James Wilson & Emily Wise & Madeline Smith, 2022. "Evidencing the benefits of cluster policies: towards a generalised framework of effects," Policy Sciences, Springer;Society of Policy Sciences, vol. 55(2), pages 369-391, June.
    2. Sahar Moazzeni & Sobhan Mostafayi Darmian & Lars Magnus Hvattum, 2023. "Multiple criteria decision making and robust optimization to design a development plan for small and medium-sized enterprises in the east of Iran," Operational Research, Springer, vol. 23(1), pages 1-32, March.
    3. Blandinieres, Florence & Krieger, Bastian & Pellens, Maikel, 2021. "Cluster support activities in the German biotechnology sector," ZEW Expertises, ZEW - Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research, number 233052.
    4. Telma Mendes & Vítor Braga & Carina Silva & Vanessa Ratten, 2023. "Taking a closer look at the regionally clustered firms: How can ambidexterity explain the link between management, entrepreneurship, and innovation in a post-industrialized world?," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 48(6), pages 2007-2053, December.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Clusters; Cluster policy; Policy evaluation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D78 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation
    • H50 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - General
    • O38 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Government Policy
    • R32 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Real Estate Markets, Spatial Production Analysis, and Firm Location - - - Other Spatial Production and Pricing Analysis

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