Organizing a cluster to foster innovation

Abstract

In this case study, we examine how the Dusavik base in Stavanger can be organized into a cluster to foster innovation. Literature on the subject does not present one single explicit cluster model that could be applied. Therefore, we drew from literature on collaboration, clusters and open innovation to put together categories to analyze the case. In order to answer our research question, we have used a qualitative approach and conducted interviews with company representatives at the Dusavik base. We have also retrieved documents and made observations to collect data that can be related to relevant theories. Our results show that the Dusavik base is missing two important cluster actors in order to be identified as a “complete cluster”. These are educational- and research institutions. However, we did find that the base does have central actors, like firm-to-firm interaction, government involvement and capital providers. We also found that the companies at the base do not work on innovation on a regular basis, and that collaboration between companies at the base happens mostly for specific projects. Finally, we established a link between theory and our research findings to make suggestions about how the Dusavik base can be organized into a cluster to foster innovation.