Broadband Enabled Knowledge Clusters: Do They Contribute to Regional Development?

Abstract

Whereas since the 1990s national and regional planners saw the creation of knowledge clusters as a panacea for gaining a competitive advantage to propel a region or country into a higher stage of industrial development, recent research suggest a more complex connection between broadband enabled knowledge clusters and social and economic development. This paper will draw on the results of studies on knowledge clusters in Southeast Asian countries as well as the relevant current literature to ask the question, whether knowledge clusters really contribute to regional development and if yes, under what circumstances. The paper will also draw on lessons learned from k-cluster initiatives in OECD countries and highlight policy options for broadband enabled knowledge cluster development.