V AN DER MEER A. and V AN WINDEN W. (2003) E-governance in cities: a comparison of urban information and communication technology policies, Reg. Studies 37 , 407-419. Throughout Europe, urban information and communication technology (ICT) policies are becoming more significant. Using examples...

This paper analyses and compares the dynamics of clusters in nine urban regions in Europe. The cluster perspective in the studying of growth processes in cities has added value because, increasingly, economic activities cross the boundaries of traditional economic sectors, as networks are...

The shift towards a knowledge-based economy seems to favour some well-endowed urban areas. However, not all cities benefit equally. This paper discusses the shift towards a knowledge-based economy in different types of European city, and derives policy conclusions for local and national...

Against the backdrop of today’s climate of economic globalization and the rapid development of information, this timely book explores the complex concept of competitiveness between cities. The expert contributors illustrate that innovation is a prerequisite for increasing urban...

In this paper we argue that large cities can benefit from higher levels of adoption of ICT (information and communication technology) among the population. We develop an analytical framework permitting the analysis, assessment, and comparison of urban ICT-adoption stimulation policies. The frame...

Regional interfirm networks are believed to be a vehicle for innovation and regional economic growth. From this perspective, local and regional governments are increasingly trying to promote these types of networks. This article discusses the relation between strategic networks and local...

Social exclusion of parts of the urban population has come to be seen as one of the key roots of many contemporary urban problems. Currently, a new optimism can be observed about the possibilities of fighting social exclusion, mainly based on the seemingly endless possibilities of information...

This paper revisits how and why new multinational knowledge-based strategies and multi-level governmental policies influence the upgrading process of regions in developing economies. Automotive multinationals traditionally exploited local asset conditions, but it is shown that they have also...

This paper discusses and illustrates the 'knowledge turn' in urban policy across Europe. We identify four manifestations of it: 1) widespread efforts to lure knowledge workers; 2) a growing involvement of knowledge institutes in urban development and planning processes, 3) an explicit 'knowledge...