Classifying innovation districts: Delphi validation of a multidimensional framework

Establishing innovation districts is a highly popular urban policy due to the economic, social and spatial benefits they offer to the host city. Investing on innovation districts is a risky business as there is no one-size-fit-all innovation district type. Besides, there only exists limited understanding on the varying features, functions and spatial and contextual characteristics of this new land use type. This study aims to contribute to the efforts in classifying innovation districts holistically through a multidimensional framework. The study builds on a conceptual framework developed by the authors and expands it into an operational framework that consists of numerous attributes-i.e., four dimensions (context, form, feature, function), 16 indicators and 48 measures. The framework and its attributes are subjected to validation by a panel of 32 experts through an international Delphi survey. This paper reports the process of framework development and validation. The resulting multidimensional innovation classification framework is first of its kind. It is useful in determining the key characteristics of existing innovation districts, helps in understanding what works in certain locations and what does not, and informs decisions of policymakers in investing the type of innovation districts suitable for the local context.