The use of cluster resources: a dynamic capabilities approach

Abstract

The cluster literature acknowledges the existence of resources that are shared by firms in the same cluster. The literature on dynamic capabilities argues that in the context of capability development, firms need to develop different business models and to define their firm boundaries in complementary ways. We use a multiple case study approach to analyze how three small and medium sized firms (Portuguese footwear manufacturers) belonging to the same cluster, but with different business models, exploit cluster resources. We find that the same resources are not used in the same way or for the same purpose. Our inductive investigation leads to two propositions: non-strategic shared resources are used by cluster firms in similar ways, and for the same objectives; strategic resources, which relate to the firms business models, are used by each firm differently and for different purposes.