The pattern of specialization in the cities of the Transition Cities project is analysed by applying the Circos (Krzywinski et al., 2009) data graphics tool for structural studies. The exercise seeks to facilitate the analysis of specialization evidence from patterns in the data.

The working paper presents a new sociotechnical and systemic approach to urban specialization with a policy focus on challenge-led clusters. Specialization patterns are explored through urban sociotechnical systems where networks and organisations act as “transition arenas” in a policy shift to the meso regime level as a new focus of transformative innovation. It is an alternative to the traditional macro/micro split, more attuned to systemic rather than singular innovation. It offers a broader definition of innovation, highlighting social, organisational, and business model novelty.

1st SMARTER Conference on Smart Specialisation and Territorial Development 28-30 September, Seville

Challenge-led and participatory learning processes to facilitate urban strategies for innovation on low-carbon futures

Cristian Matti, Fred Steward and Andreas Huck