Authors:

Yevgeny A. KAPOGUZOV Dr. Sc. (Econ.), Head of Economic Theory and Entrepreneurship Dept

Valery V. KARPOV Dr. Sc. (Econ.), Chairman

Roman I. CHUPIN Cand. Sc. (Sociology), Research Fellow

Abstract:

The paper covers the problem of evaluating the efficiency of innovative clusters as a new form of manufacturing in Russian regions aimed at ensuring sustainable rate of socio-economic development. It also addresses the issues of managerial decision-making in the sphere of project management. Based on the analysis of modern approaches to the identification of clusters, as well as an overview of the methods for their evaluation, the methodological basis includes the concept that makes it possible to examine a cluster’s efficiency through a set of projects. An important assumption of the approach is that it is applicable to quasi-clusters, i.e. formations that are de jure considered to be clusters, but do not meet the full list of criteria proposed in the theory. The research develops a method for assessing the efficiency of cluster projects in such formations that encompasses a set of performance indicators and arrangements for their application. We test the method using a phenol and acetone production project implemented within the petrochemical cluster in Omsk oblast. The paper demonstrates the logic of the cluster approach included in the Development Strategy of the Omsk oblast until 2020, justifies the choice of a specific cluster and provides basic information about its participants. Calculation of the key performance indicators results in the set of a cluster’s characteristics necessary for guaranteeing the acceptable project rate of return. The authors arrive at the conclusion that there is a need to redefine the payback period of the phenol and acetone production project.

Keywords: PROJECT MANAGEMENT; CLUSTER POLICY; INDUSTRIAL CLUSTER; INVESTMENT PROJECT; EFFICIENCY EVALUATION; PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY; INTERNAL RATE OF RETURN

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