ABSTRACT
Most traditional cluster studies follow a static approach (Martin and Sunley, 2003). In fact, the broad and comprehensive understanding of cluster evolution still constitutes an emerging topic in different disciplines (Hervás-Oliver, 2015). Clusters are dynamic units which emerge, transform themselves and reconvert or disappear. It is necessary to adopt a dynamic perspective for the cluster study in order to know the reasons why the cluster evolves, how these evolution mechanisms work and the role the different cluster actors play (Wang et al., 2014). To study the genesis and evolution of clusters, the analytical framework of the so-called life cycle model can be used though the prevailing discussion over its validity (Boschma and Fornahl, 2011; Martin and Sunley, 2011). The ideal-type phases of cluster life cycle described by the literature are three: origin, development and maturity (Menzel and Fornahl, 2010). In the origin stage (emergence), cluster-specific conditions are not present, but the cluster can host some historical sediment of knowledge and competencies. The development stage is characterised by the emergence of a set of cluster-specific institutions, knowledge and competencies. It shows a progressive increase in the number of local firms, and a thickening of the web of relations among them and the external context. In the maturity stage, the growth rate of local firms gradually slows down, as does the virtuous cycle of semi-automatic reproduction of cluster-specific conditions (Belussi and Sedita, 2009).
