The networks needed for regional competitiveness
Building prosperity in a network-based economy requires us to align, link and leverage assets within five different types of networks. These networks include: brainpower networks; innovation out or ship networks; quality, connected place networks; strategy and narrative networks; and civic leadership and collaboration networks.
Notice that this framework transcends the old categories of community development, workforce development, economic development, and physical planning. These are old categories, largely defined by state and federal governments decades ago. Thinking in these terms simply replicates the "silo" mindset that inhibits the formation of new networks.
Think of this representation as a "strategy base map". A community or regional strategy can be plotted on this map. All of the assets within the region can be mapped on this map. Regional outcomes can be depicted on the map. I have also used the map to show civic leaders their portfolio of investment.
The map provides a good tool to see whether a community or regional strategy is balanced and connected.
Presenting a regional economy in terms of these five networks has certain advantages. Most important, the representation is inclusive. Virtually anyone in the community or region interested in building prosperity can find themselves somewhere on this map. The map also demonstrates how more elaborate strategies build out from a core.
The framework also shows the danger of fads. Richard Florida, for example, preaches the importance of creative people, but he is promoting only a partial solution to building a balanced, competitive economy.
