CLUSTERS AS A TOOL OF COOPERATION AND FORMATION OF REGIONAL NETWORKS: EVIDENCES FROM SLOVAKIA

Abstract

The importance of developing global and local networks and business clusters between fi rms and companies in order to reach competitiveness has recently become one of the most signifi cant issues in modern economies. Geo- graphy plays an important role in this fi eld because it places all these networks into particular space and territory, giving them specifi c characteristics. In the last two decades, fi rms and regions have actively engaged in networks to survive in global markets and to pursue sustainable development. However, due to the individualism of companies and the lack of knowledge of potential bene- fi ts of networking, cluster theories are still neglected as a tool for enhancing the regionsqualities and competitiveness in less developed countries. Further- more, the theoretical information is not systematized but rather fragmented, it is insuffi cient and empirical studies are limited, too. The aim of this paper is to examine the role of networking and to provide a kind of background theory for further empirical research. First of all, it will summarize basic knowledge and theories about clusters and networks based on available literary sources. Clusters are not easy to defi ne and their classifi cation is also not so clear, therefore this paper endeavours to clarify basic defi nitions, dynamics and typology of clusters and levels of networks so that it can serve as a conceptual frame for further empirical research. Finally, it will try to examine whether such clusters and networks do really exist in the Slovakian context and if they do, then whether they are comparable to those in Western European countries.