MediaCityUK is an international hub for technology, innovation and creativity. Home to the likes of the BBC, ITV, Ericsson, dock10 and Kellogg’s, and complemented by more than 250 smaller media and digital businesses. As a focal point for nurturing the best talent and host to a wide variety of leisure activities, MediaCityUK is a vibrant, sustainable destination to work, live and play, on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal. http://www.mediacityuk.co.uk

QUESTION

MediaCityUK is an international hub for technology, innovation and creativity. Home to the likes of the BBC, ITV, Ericsson, dock10 and Kellogg’s, and complemented by more than 250 smaller media and digital businesses. As a focal point for nurturing the best talent and host to a wide variety of leisure activities, MediaCityUK is a vibrant, sustainable destination to work, live and play, on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal. http://www.mediacityuk.co.uk
Use the Manchester MediaCityUK technology cluster to illustrate the concept of technology clusters as described in Melissa Schilling’s (2013, 2017) book and as discussed in class. Use this cluster to answer the following questions. What different types of organisations are in the cluster? Which kind of interactions take place? What attracts companies to the cluster and what are the benefits of clustering in MediaCity? Are there any disadvantages and if so explain them?

The questions are long exam questions (not essays) on concepts that we have covered in the unit. As you know in exam questions sometimes you are asked to use an example to illustrate your answers. In this exam I will give you the example you need to use in each question. As it is open book you then have the opportunity to find sources and get information about the examples in the internet. You need to cite these sources in the text as well as any other sources that you use, and add the reference in your reference list.

Add the list of references (your bibliography) at the end of each question. You should list any sources that you have used in it. This is not included in the word count.

ANSWER

The MediaCityUK Technology Cluster: A Hub of Innovation and Collaboration

MediaCityUK, located on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal, serves as an international hub for technology, innovation, and creativity. It is home to prominent organizations such as the BBC, ITV, Ericsson, dock10, and Kellogg’s, alongside more than 250 smaller media and digital businesses. This cluster of technology-focused organizations exemplifies the concept of technology clusters as described in Melissa Schilling’s book and discussed in class.

In the MediaCityUK technology cluster, various types of organizations can be found. These include media companies such as the BBC and ITV, which are major players in the broadcasting industry. Additionally, there are technology and telecommunications firms like Ericsson, contributing to the development and implementation of advanced communication technologies. Furthermore, dock10 provides media services, including television production studios and post-production facilities. The presence of Kellogg’s also highlights the inclusion of consumer goods companies within the cluster, bringing together different sectors and fostering collaboration.

Within the cluster, a range of interactions takes place. These interactions can be categorized into four main types: collaboration, knowledge sharing, resource sharing, and talent acquisition. Companies within the cluster often collaborate on joint projects, leveraging their collective expertise and resources to drive innovation (“Knowledge Sharing and Communities of Practice,” 2015). This collaboration can involve partnerships for content production, technology development, or research initiatives. Knowledge sharing is facilitated through networking events, conferences, and industry forums where professionals exchange insights and best practices. Resource sharing, such as shared facilities or infrastructure, helps optimize operational efficiency and reduce costs. Moreover, the cluster serves as a talent pool, attracting skilled individuals who seek opportunities in the media and technology sectors.

Several factors attract companies to the MediaCityUK cluster. Firstly, the concentration of media and technology organizations creates a critical mass of industry expertise, enabling knowledge spillovers and cross-pollination of ideas. This facilitates innovation and provides companies with a competitive advantage (Dymitrowski & Mielcarek, 2021). Additionally, the proximity of organizations within the cluster promotes face-to-face interactions and fosters a sense of community, leading to collaboration and the formation of business networks. The cluster also benefits from the presence of educational institutions, such as the University of Salford, which contributes to the availability of a skilled workforce and supports research and development initiatives. Furthermore, the cluster’s location in Manchester offers access to a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, making it an attractive place to live and work.

The benefits of clustering in MediaCityUK are numerous. The close proximity of organizations fosters knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation. The cluster creates an environment conducive to attracting and retaining talent, as professionals can benefit from the diverse career opportunities available within the cluster. The presence of a critical mass of organizations also attracts investments and business opportunities, contributing to economic growth. Moreover, clustering in MediaCityUK enhances the reputation and visibility of the companies involved, creating a positive image for the cluster as a hub of technological and creative excellence.

However, there are also potential disadvantages to clustering. One challenge is the risk of groupthink, where companies within the cluster may become too insular and fail to consider alternative perspectives and approaches. This can lead to a lack of diversity in thinking and hinder true innovation. Additionally, competition within the cluster can be intense, as companies vie for resources, talent, and market share. This competitive environment may result in high costs and increased pressure to differentiate and stand out. Furthermore, the reliance on a single location for clustering poses the risk of vulnerability to external shocks, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, which can disrupt the entire cluster.

In conclusion, the MediaCityUK technology cluster exemplifies the concept of technology clusters as described in Melissa Schilling’s book. It encompasses a diverse range of organizations, promotes various types of interactions, and offers numerous benefits such as knowledge sharing, collaboration, access to talent, and business opportunities. However, it is crucial to address the potential disadvantages of clustering, such as groupthink, intense competition, and vulnerability to external shocks, to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience.

References

Dymitrowski, A., & Mielcarek, P. (2021). Business Model Innovation Based on New Technologies and Its Influence on a Company’s Competitive Advantage. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research, 16(6), 2110–2128. https://doi.org/10.3390/jtaer16060118 

Knowledge Sharing and Communities of Practice. (2015). In Advances in knowledge acquisition, transfer and management book series (pp. 259–285). Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-4666-8318-1.ch011

– MediaCityUK website: http://www.mediacityuk.co.uk 

– Schilling, M. A. (2013). Strategic Management of Technological Innovation. McGraw-Hill Education.

– Schilling, M. A. (2017). Strategic Management of Technological Innovation. McGraw-Hill Education.