Using Proprietary Databases to Overcome Data Suppression in Industry Cluster Analysis

Authors

Gilbert Michaud, Ohio University
G. Jason Jolley, Ohio University

Volume

55

Issue

4

DOI

10.34068/joe.55.04.08

Abstract

Extension agents are frequently tasked with determining industry clusters that exist in a region to support economic development. However, data suppression issues recurrently prohibit a comprehensive understanding of heavily concentrated firms in a region, particularly in rural areas. This article discusses the use of North American Industry Classification System codes within the LexisNexis Academic database as a technique for locating data about specific firms and analyzing regional industry clusters. This approach provides a practical and cost-efficient method for Extension agents and other researchers and practitioners to identify clusters and gather firm information in small geographies throughout the United States.

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Recommended Citation

Michaud, G., & Jolley, G. J. (2017). Using Proprietary Databases to Overcome Data Suppression in Industry Cluster Analysis. The Journal of Extension, 55(4), Article 8. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.55.04.08