Methodological aspects of the analysis of clusters with particular emphasis on the agribusiness sector

Abstract

The concept of cluster structures is a unique way of thinking about the creation of the competitiveness of enterprises. The essence of this concept is to stimulate cooperation between the different entities of the economy, the acceleration of innovation processes and thereby increase the competitive position of enterprises operating in the cluster. The methodology to identify operating and forming clusters and conditions for their operation and development is one of the most challenging research problems. It requires the application of appropriate tools for technical use of quantitative and qualitative data. Barrier availability (time-consuming, cost effectiveness) of the data from primary sources and secondary is an important limitation to carry out such a diagnosis. The main objective of this paper is an attempt to review the main research methods used in the analysis of cluster structures, with particular emphasis on those operating in agribusiness. These methods are focused on the identification of a cluster analysis of its structure, the description of the mechanism of functioning and stage of its development. In practice, what is worth noting is often used various combinations of these methods and adapts them to the specifics of a given country or region, depending on the availability of relevant statistics. Properly conducted research leads to effective selection of tools to support the local economy, improve the activities undertaken by the clusters, as well as allow for adaptation of policy instruments cluster, innovation and development to the stage of development. In turn, properly functioning, as well as creating new structures cluster occurring in the economy is one of the essential conditions of its dynamic expansion.