Cluster development in the SA tooling industry

This paper explores the concept of clustering in general, analysing research and experiences in different countries and regions, and summarising factors leading to success or contributing to failure of specific cluster initiatives. Based on this, requirements for the establishment of clusters are su...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Von Leipzig, Konrad, Dimitrov, Dimiter
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Stellenbosch University 2015-11-01
Series:South African Journal of Industrial Engineering
Subjects:
Online Access:http://sajie.journals.ac.za/pub/article/view/946
Description
Summary:This paper explores the concept of clustering in general, analysing research and experiences in different countries and regions, and summarising factors leading to success or contributing to failure of specific cluster initiatives. Based on this, requirements for the establishment of clusters are summarised. Next, initiatives especially in the South African tool and die making (TDM) industry are considered. Through a benchmarking approach, the strengths and weaknesses of individual local tool rooms are analysed, and conclusions are drawn particularly about South African characteristics of the industry. From these results, and from structured interviews with individual tool room owners, difficulties in the establishment of a South African tooling cluster are explored, and specific areas of concern are pointed out.
ISSN:1012-277X
2224-7890