Regional and Interregional Input-Output Models: An Appraisal

Abstract

It is not much of an overstatement to say that post World War II regional research has been almost completely dominated by regional applications of input-output models. Whatever the form of the variations, the basic input-output theme is present. While users of, and writers on, input-output techniques are quite honest in admitting its limitations, one does sense a feeling that this approach is clearly preferable to other frameworks in attacking regional problems. Indeed, one leading writer in the field of regional analysis notes that, too many of (the economists) tools represent transfers of concepts and methods traditionally used by the national-international type of economist.' It is not the function of this paper to put forth the case for the Keynesian-style nationalinternational framework in regional analysis as an alternative form of or supplement to input-output. This has been done elsewhere.2 Rather it is the purpose of this paper to review the various operational uses of regional input-output analysis. Such a review will not only give the reader some idea of the current uses of input-output in regional analysis, but will also enable him to more adequately judge its possibilities and limitations.