Monday, April 16, 2007
Here is an interesting article that provides some perspectives on the challenges of building clusters in the life sciences. Read more.
(Some years ago, Brookings issued a report on biotechnology clusters. You can download it here. It was a good analytical report, but I'm not sure it reached the right conclusions. It is true that no region can develop a bioscience cluster without a strong research base. True enough. At the same time, the biosciences are not like other industry clusters. For one, we can "forecast" an unlimited demand for improvements in human health. Unlike iPods or HD-TV or automobiles, it's hard to see how the markets for bioscience advancements will become saturated. Regions can be successful by focusing on their niche markets, and there are an exploding number of niches. Bio professionals in Pittsburgh outlined this argument. Learn more.)
posted by Ed Morrison |
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Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
Building bioclusters
