EDC Park Needs Assessment Tool

Abstract

The function of this thesis was to apply a tool which aims to primarily collect and understand the needs of potential customers who show an interest in joining the EDC Park in Kajaani, which in turn allows the identification of service gaps. Secondly, the tool operates as a method of marketing the project to potential customers. The research was commissioned by the EDC Park project and coordinated by Kainuun Etu Ltd.

The theoretical background comprises of two topics; firstly cluster theory which examines the basics regarding the inception and development of cluster formations, also investigating examples of pre-existing cluster formations within Finland. The second, regional competitiveness highlights two models; the first explores a region’s value proposition to prospective customers, the following model looking at basic conditions that influence a firm's decision to relocate. In combination, the two topics allow realistic recommendations to be added for the positive development of the EDC park cluster based upon identified customer needs.

The culmination of the thesis was a successfully deployed tool, which effectively mapped target customer needs through primary data collection and the results showed Kainuu could support a majority of the needs. The service gaps that appeared include a lack in the region of niche and relocation services for employees, limited choice of business intelligence services and a gap of students who graduate with specializations based upon the IT field. All of the service gaps can in some way be rectified and repaired by actors within Kainuu through practical recommendations as part of a developmental process.