Optimized Socio-Spatial Development Framework for Yielding Competitiveness at the Level of Tehran Metropolitan Area(TMA)

According to experts, competitiveness requires application of specific kinds of spatial development patterns like clustering, with a logic based on Marshal-Romer, Porter and Jacobes Models stating that proximity is the main requirement for knowledge transfer, formation of knowledge spillovers,facilitation of innovation production, and competitiveness. Thus, unconditional acceptance of "clustering" policy-making tool is impossible and unjustified without regard to historical, economic, institutional and geographical paths. Therefore, the hypothesis of the present study was that competitiveness geography is a function of context based on two factors, i.e., first. The type of knowledge source, and two. Second. type of interaction of active units. This study investigated two questions, i.e, to whatextent and under what conditions competitive units are dependent on spatial aggregation, and if these aggregations follow clustering development pattern. After in-depth interviews with managers of competitive active units, the type of knowledge source used, and interactions with other active units, the most appropriate statement and theoretical framework of competitiveness spatial development were extracted using Structural Equation Modeling with regard to specific conditions of Tehran. Also, spatial map analysis was used in determining the willingness of units toward a specific type of location pattern. The output of these studies was the presentation of a policy-making framework for competitiveness spatial development. This framework shows that competitive application of all activities is not always resulted by clustering, and some competitive activities are not related to clusters (cross-sectoral links). Some others are dependent on a specific location and some are independent of location.