14. März 2008
The Rise of a Cluster
Before one starts a cluster, there must be more actual demand than only of one or two potential key players of a cluster.
The “European Cluster Memorandum” describes a cluster as
“a key driver of innovation and prosperity, helping regions to build unique profiles of specialized capabilities that enable them to strengthen their role as active and attractive partners in the global economy.”
Thus a cluster-building-process should be based on the actual needs and the competence of a region or branch. Based on my experience there are seven steps in developing clusters:
1. Regional economic policy recognizes a field of particular know-how and competence. A dialouge with the key players starts.
2. If there is a fundamental interest a more profound research begins.
[Alternatively, some companies come closer actively to the economic policy and say: “We have to cooperate - please help us in organizing this process!”]
3. If this phase of profound research is positive, a formal (or informal) organization is founded and you must get the companies on board. Then the starting signal falls.
4. Concrete projects are defined.
5. First projects are implemented concretely.
6. “That’s not how we’d visualized things!” The strategy is adapted.
7. New projects are defined and realized …
Franz Zuckriegl, Cluster-Pilot