Elżbieta Sobczak

Specialization in Smart Growth Sectors vs. Effects of Change of Workforce Numbers in the European Union Regional Space

The purpose of the study is to identify the relations between the level of specialization in smart growth sectors and the effects of change of workforce numbers in NUTS (The Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics) 2 regions of the European Union countries. Multivariate data analysis methods, structural-geographic shift-share method and regional specialization indices were applied in the study. The structure of workforce in economic sectors, separated based on the intensity of research and development activities in NUTS 2 regions in the period 2009–2012, constituted the subject matter of the analysis. The application of shift-share analysis allowed for determining the effects of workforce structure, competitiveness and number changes in smart growth sectors against the reference area, i.e. the European Union regional area. Multivariate data analysis methods facilitated the typology of the analyzed regions against the level of specialization and the type of effects resulting from the change of workforce numbers in smart growth sector, as well as determining the relations between them.

Smart Growth Path as the Basis for the European Union Countries Typology

The concept of smart growth integrates activities in the area of smart specialization, creativity and innovation influencing development opportunities of particular European countries. The objective of the paper is to classify the EU countries with regard to smart growth paths by means of multivariate statistical analysis methods. The concept of smart growth path was defined considering the direction and intensity of changes occurring in the area of smart specialization, creativity and innovation. These paths became the basis for the European Union member states classification carried out using cluster analysis methods. The presented analysis is of dynamic nature and allows for the smart growth patterns typology.

The Concept of Chains as a Tool for MSA Contributing to the International Market Segmentation

New tendencies in international market segmentation methodology lead towards joining similar market segments, functioning in different countries, into one international segment, defined as an inter-market one. The paper presents suggestions of applying multivariate statistical analysis methods for identifying international segments. The basis of this segmentation is made up of the concept of means-end chains, which assumes that products’ attributes become for the consumer the means, which enable obtaining set objectives: i.e. consequences and personal values. Configurations of bonds between the attributes, consequences and values called the hierarchical cognitive structure of the product, diversify consumers and due to this, can become the criteria of their segmentation. The article is of methodological character.