METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF FORMING REGIONAL CLUSTER STRATEGIES IN THE CONDITIONS OF DIGITALIZATION OF THE ECONOMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS

Abstract

In the Republic of Belarus, cluster policy is becoming an important tool for stimulating the innovative development of the economy. The cluster concept adopted in 2014 defines the methodology for developing cluster policy in the Republic of Belarus. The instruments for the implementation of cluster policy are state programs and strategies in which the creation of cluster-type structures is planned. The regional cluster strategy is part of the innovation development strategy. An important factor that influenced the transformation of the cluster concept is the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0), which is changing the economy and society. The purpose of the article is to develop methodological foundations for the formation of regional cluster strategies under the influence of Industry 4.0. The objectives of the study are: to identify the prerequisites and conditions for the transformation of the cluster concept under the influence of Industry 4.0; development of stages and methods for the formation of regional cluster strategies.

The article defines the following prerequisites for the transformation of the cluster concept: the development of ICT and the digitalization of society; development of network forms of relationships between subjects; «Democratization» of knowledge thanks to the Internet; digital transformation caused by the fourth industrial revolution. Taking into account these factors, a methodology for the formation of regional cluster strategies has been developed, which includes the following steps. Stage 1: SWOT-analysis of clustering in the region (factors and indicators are determined); Stage 2: formulation of goals and objectives for clustering in the digital economy (the architecture of goals and objectives has been built, taking into account the capabilities of Industry 4.0); Stage 3: development of cluster strategies (a multivariate approach to the optimal set of strategic alternatives is proposed depending on: the stage of the cluster life cycle; the degree of development of cluster relations; the goals and priorities in digitalization); Stage 4: the implementation of the cluster strategy includes the financing of cluster programs, evaluation of their effectiveness, monitoring the progress of implementation.