Measuring impact from policy interventions - a theoretical and practical framework depicting structural change

Abstract

In this article, we propose a framework for better understanding how structural change may be conceptualised and measured. In 2012, Oxford Research AB was assigned by the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth to study the impact of EU structural funds on structural change. For this purpose, we have developed a framework for measuring structural change. The framework is deducted from previous research and highlights six factors depicted as critical for understanding structural change and policy interventions aiming to stimulate such a change: 1) changing the structure of regional business and industry; 2) strengthening the regional culture for entrepreneurship and innovation; 3) developing collaboration for development; 4) building a more effective support structure; 5) strengthening a region's infrastructure; 6) developing an attractive and pluralistic region. This article elaborates this research endeavour and discusses the empirical experiences gained from a first application and comprehensive test of the model.