In some networks dedicated survey deliver substantial information, covering required aspects of the analysis. Using the survey will result in more comparative information regarding partners’ strengths and weaknesses. Also an analysis of partners’ needs and expectations may be conducted with a focus on innovation. The analysis serves the purpose of shaping the discussion regarding key activity areas and the detailed measures which should be supported within the network initiative in the future. The main tool for this part of analysis is usually a questionnaire sent to all initiating stakeholders, plus face-to-face interviews with their representative managers. In order to obtain inner dynamics in the network, there is a need for engaging numerous actors to reach a critical mass for the initiative. The following actors should be considered and their contribution analysed: Companies Cluster organisations Regions and their development agencies Technology transfer organisations Policy makers Trade associations Financial institutions R&D-centres Trade unions Academia Industry associations Checklist for stakeholder analysis Templates The example of appropriate stakeholder analysis matrix is presented in the table below. However as every example, this can be changed or developed accordingly to needs and foreseen usage. Please note that apart from summative information regarding the stakeholders’ status and resources, the analysis also contains an assessment of their (potential) position towards the development of the initiative. This aspect will later on allow for appropriate stakeholders management. A much more complex matrix for assessment of cluster partners was developed in by GTZ in the manual titled see chapter 1.1.3. Cooperation and Performance Test for Cluster Partners. Table 2: Example of stakeholders analysis name Type and profile available in cluster Perceived What do we need them for? Power over the network activities) Interest (how they are in the Measures for engagement (low/medium/high) Institute for Protection in Public research institute. Operating in the area of protection and green Laboratory facility which can be used for development and testing of new technologies in the area of air pollution and CO2 capture and storage Not experienced in cluster projects. Long record of international cooperation in research projects, not directly linked to market oriented exploitation. Institutionally the institute (and its research staff) is interested in international projects and exchange of knowledge. Difficulties in commercialisation of research outcomes, since the researchers are mostly interested in publications, and do not have Potentially usable for and testing of new Medium High The institute might be engaged in of new technologies under the conditions that resources for research are assured form external sources and institute IPR rights and publication possibility will be assured. interest )
environment necessary incentives for knowledge transfer to industry. EnviGlobe Ltd. Small private company with developing market potential in the area of green services consulting (water and air pollution) Consultants able to conduct testing and market advice in the area of with for basis only. The company participates regularly in its local cluster activities, delivering project management and technical expertise services to mostly construction industry. The company is run by open minded management board, potentially interested in participation in international projects. May assist in market of new solutions. Low Low As a typical SME the company is very much engaged in activities, nevertheless it might be well supportive to projects with commercial focus, delivering profit in short run. Company XYZ Ltd. Regional Agency or Balticas Venture Fund Capitia AS … Source: Oxford Research AS Assessing needs – a follow up of stakeholders analysis In terms of matchmaking and partners search the most important step, after preparation of the stakeholders’ analysis matrix, would be creation of subsequent table presenting perceived current needs for partners. Such an analysis must be reflecting the strategic action plan for the initiative and built upon the analysis of vision and defined goals identified in this document. Potential needs for partners might be matched by revision of information from stakeholders’ analysis, or simply by reflection upon missing elements, needed for the intended development of the initiative, as demonstrated in the example. Table 3: Needs’ analysis - example Strategic goal Competence and resources needed Current status Missing elements Provide information about clean water business opportunities Good orientation within public private partnerships initiatives Knowledge about planned water and sewage projects in the region Knowledge of investment plans of key players in the sector Professional IT platform enabling delivery of information Regional development agencies engaged in the project from the beginning Open access to public tenders database Local governments responsible for water and sewage and public investment partners not engaged in the project Lack of settled mechanism for information exchange Establish exchange of expertise between research organisations A number of research organizations of various relevant profiles and interested in cooperation Only two relevant research organisations engaged from the start-up of the initiative No resources for larger academia collaboration and financing of research undertakings