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Clustering Persists Even in Broadband-Connected Locations
Even in broadband-connected industries, companies continue to cluster for work force and social benefits.
Although companies that operate predominantly across broadband or virtual networks have no physical need for a cluster, how can you explain the existence of high-tech clusters such as the Silicon Valley?
 

Christopher Steele, President, CWS Consulting Group
The need for clustering differs from activity to activity, even within an industry. However, even in such broadband-enabled industries as software development, there exists a combination of dispersion and clustering occurring. In other words, companies locate key centers of excellence within the acknowledged cluster cities and then link them together using technology. The fact that such clusters still exist supports the continuing value of individuals working together, face-to-face, in real time, to exchange ideas and work cooperatively in the same physical location. It also suggests a strong social component to the value of clusters.
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About the Author

Christopher Steele, President, CWS Consulting Group
Chris Steele has more than 18 years of business and urban planning experience in real estate, economic development, and location strategy. He has served major clients in national and international demographics, labor, and real estate trends review and analysis. Most notably, he worked with Boeing in selecting its Chicago headquarters. He holds master’s degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
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