Competitiveness & Economic Development
Why are some nations or regions more prosperous than others? What conditions enable global corporations or local businesses to innovate and grow? Traditional economic theories fail to capture many of the underlying forces at work in today’s global economy. Competitiveness is the only way to achieve sustainable job growth, improve wages, and raise the standard of living—yet the real meaning of competitive advantage is poorly understood.
The Solution: Understanding Competitiveness
Michael Porter defines competitiveness based on productivity and focuses on the microeconomic foundations of competitive advantage that underpin productivity in nations, regions and clusters. This website introduces the frameworks and key concepts that are a foundation for understanding competitiveness.
Strategy for Economic Development
Michael Porter’s research and frameworks on competitiveness and economic development grew out of his seminal work in corporate strategy. Strategy is also an essential tool for leaders of cities, states, regions and nations. Clear economic strategies that engage all stakeholders, boost innovation and ultimately improve productivity are especially critical in times of austerity or economic distress.
Explore this content in two tracks: Frameworks & Key Concepts or Research & Applications. Also, learn more about the "Microeconomics of Competitiveness" (MOC) course led by Michael Porter and offered at Harvard and 100+ affiliated universities around the world.
Related Resources
- Jul 2012
- National Bureau of Economic Research
The Determinants of National Competitiveness
- 26 Feb 2011
- National Governors Association Winter Meeting