Condicionantes de sucesso de arranjos produtivos locais: análise dos casos de três arranjos do Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

As the changes promoted by enterprises in Local Productive Arrangements (Clusters) are becoming more frequent in our country, mainly in Rio Grande do Sul, one of the first states that supported the development of these arrangements, it becomes necessary that scientific studies be developed in search for a better comprehension about what makes a Cluster a case of success. This way, the information obtained by these studies can be helpful both in similar fields and other areas of study. The goal of this academic paper is to identify and reveal the relevant aspects that contribute to the success of a Cluster, such as identifying which are the factors that may cause the failure, by analyzing three cases considered successful in Rio Grande do Sul: Metal-mechanic in Caxias do Sul, Furniture Industry in Bento Gonçalves and Metal-mechanic Post-harvest in Panambi/Condor. Because of that, a relation between the theory and the applicability was made, using the results of case studies, in which Brazilian specialists gave their contribution to a refinement of the theme, both in theoretical and conceptual terms. This initiative showed positive results, receiving contribution from 36 experts; they answered a questionnaire about four macro-concepts: Success, Failure, Results and Weak Points. After the compilation of this data, the results were used as parameter to establish a new model to be used in deeply interviews done with 25 representatives from the successful clusters previously mentioned and modifying the macro-concepts to: Success, Failure, Competitiveness and Governance. Analyzing the results of this study it was possible to identify 10 elements that were always in evidence, contributing and leading the Clusters success. These elements were present in all the studied arrangements. They are as follows: Creation and Diffusion of Knowledge and Innovation; Cooperation Links among Productive Structure; Education and Research Institutions and the Government; Favorable Infra-structure and Environment; Enterprise Competitiveness; Organized Governance; Cooperation and Confidence; Collective Efficiency; Social Capital; Institutional and Politician Articulation; and Information Systems.