Key attributes that support the creation and growth of ICT based industrial clusters

This paper provides an exploratory review of current global research on industrial clusters, and seeks to identify the key success components of these clusters. It then discusses these attributes in terms of their implication for New Zealand ICT industrial clusters. It is argued that by reviewing the success attributes underpinning industrial clusters a baseline can be established for decision-making in both the commercial activities of industry vertical groups, as well as local/central government economic policy formulation. The paper identifies the key success factors as the presence of large pillar firms that intact with strong local demand via a sophisticated work force, effective catalytic networks across all firms and local research resources, attention to emerging technologies and focus on global markets.