Assessing Istanbul competitiveness: a multidimensional approach

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze the dynamic competitive profile of Istanbul and to compare it to ten other European cities by using a multidimensional approach. Design/methodology/approach Starting from a review of existing competitiveness models, the paper develops a methodology that takes into account the complex shifting nature of the network of “mobilities” interacting within and around the destination. Findings The proposed approach proves to be effective in designing a dynamic competitive profile of every city and in identifying the factors that drive competitiveness within and between different competitive clusters of cities. Originality/value The new approach presents several original elements, since it embeds the evolution of the system of diverse intersecting tourism and non tourism “mobilities” that characterize an urban destination, and integrates different dimensions and disciplinary points of view.