Metodologias de mapeamento de clusters em sectores estratégicos regionais

: enquadramento teórico, análise comparativa internacional e contextualização para a Região Norte

Abstract

Our main goal is to analyse and compare cluster mapping methodologies, as well as propose a set of recommendations which allow for the mapping of clusters in the Norte region of Portugal. For that, several methodologies were identified and analysed, developed both by academics and organizations. We found that, in light of the cluster theory as developed by Porter, the execution of any of the listed methods in an isolated fashion and absent of spatial context would result in a misguided mapping of clusters. To prevent that from happening we searched within the concept for its theoretical basis and economic meaning, attributed real quantitative value, and made comparative analysis so that a proper cluster mapping
methodology could be created for the Norte region. The use of relevant and precise statistical data is emphasized and the execution of four steps for cluster mapping is recommended, as well as several suggestions for future analysis. We believe the theoretical results are relevant and hope to contribute for more rigour and stability of the concept, and to create objective cluster based economic development policies.

Date of Award	Aug 2011
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Vasco Rodrigues (Supervisor)