Competitiveness of the Regions of the Southern Hungarian Plain and Northern Hungary

Abstract

The paper undertakes to measure regional competitiveness by multi-variable data-analysis methodology focusing on the competitiveness of the small regions in the two regions. The measurement method is based on clear concepts and a closed logical system: it uses the unified definition of competitiveness as its basis and the selection of indicators is coordinated by a widely accepted demonstration model. The novelty in the method is constituted by building the selection of indicators and variable weighting on mathematical-statistical foundations, and thus minimizing the subjectivity of the analyst.
The study used 78 selected and weighted indicators to categorise the small regions of the two regions into types of competitiveness, and also determined the relative competitive rankings of these territorial units among the 174 small regions in Hungary. In the analysis cluster analysis, multi-dimensional scaling and main component analysis were used.