Enrico Ciciotti

The aim of the paper it to explore the theoretical foundation of the competition among cities in order to derive policy implications for both national and local public policy makers. First we analyse the evolution of the concept of competitions among cities, starting from the static view of the central place theory (spatial monopoly) until the networking approach and the dynamic view of urban structure. In this respect, a special emphasis is given to the role of innovation in urban competition. In order to measure urban competition, the SWOT analysis is proposed and discussed. Finally the paper focus on policy instruments for increasing urban competitiveness, especially on strategic planning.