Clustering, Software & Competitiveness
By Harvey Mathews, president, SAO
Harvard Business School’s Michael Porter defines clusters as “groups of similar and related firms concentrated in a small geographic area.” According to the Oregon Cluster Network, “a cluster must consist of interconnected firms in the same fields, specialized suppliers, service providers, firms in related industries and associated institutions (such as trade associations, universities, technology transfer centers, etc.). Through their competitive and cooperative dynamics, industry clusters are successful in creating competitive advantages for their member firms.”
By that definition, Oregon has a software cluster. Of course, arguments could be made that we have many software clusters: Open source, education, banking/finance, construction, and collaboration software companies are located here in greater concentration than the norm.
If are interested in participating in a meeting to tease out what makes up our software cluster, the Software Association will host a meeting in early October. Contact me to let me know your availability.
If you are interested in a conference on the topic, the TCI Global Competitiveness Conference in Portland, OR October 8-12 will be a great event for you to attend. Jointly hosted by the states of Oregon and Washington and the City of Portland, the theme is “Collaboration, Innovation and Sustainability.” You can find more information at: www.clusters2007.com
Other Oregon Clusters
According to the Oregon Business Council’s Cluster Network, the state has 18 economic clusters (click on them to see more information):
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