DTI's clusters policy is to create the conditions that encourage the formation and growth of clusters, but not to artificially create clusters.

The Practical Guide to Cluster Development is a report to the DTI and the English RDAs by Ecotec Research & Consulting and was published in April 2004. It aims to bring together much of the cluster mapping carried out around the UK and set out the critical success factors for cluster development. It also draws on analysis and evaluation material to set out how local policymakers can help clusters to flourish. Copies are also available from DTI Publications or can be downloaded from this page.