Clusters Analyses in Regional Statistics

Abstract

The concept of cluster is related to the spatial density of the economic organizations suggesting that there are some specialized industrial activities with a high degree of geographic concentration. Interdependent relations are developed among economic organizations included in the cluster, that lead to an increased labour productivity, enhancing their competitiveness on the market and the competitiveness of the area where they operate.

The statistical cluster analysis uses the method of minimum dispersion of hierarchical tree method, in order to obtain the information necessary to small and medium organizations and the regeneration of some declining areas or industries.

Territorial profile economic analyses can use the cluster analysis in order to make hierarchical classifications, according to performance, strategies.

The hierarchical tree methods consist in identifying certain hierarchies used to take into consideration the units. According to their organization mode, clusters can be: vertically integrated, horizontally integrated, emerging clusters.

Keywords: cluster, cluster analysis, vertically integrated clusters, horizontally integrated clusters, emerging clusters, minimum dispersion method of hierarchical tree classification

JEL Classification: C10