T HE
C YLINDER
N ARRATIVE
with each environment benefiting from shared infrastructure but receiving differentiated support—a hallmark of modern, high-performance operating systems.
7.2.1
Cluster Selection Criteria
EnterpriseKC has developed a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation process to determine whether system resources should be committed to growing the enterprises in a given cluster. The following list represents some of the cluster selection criteria that are considered: • Does the cluster offer high wage, high impact career opportunities for all? • What is the size and growth potential for the cluster? • Is there a critical mass of enterprises in the cluster? • Are there academic and enterprise assets that drive innovation? • To what extent will EnterpriseKC be able to influence growth within the cluster? To date, EnterpriseKC has identified twenty (20) clusters, of which eight (8) clusters are believed to have a very high potential for growth in the region.
7.2.2
“N-Dimensional” Clusters
It is important to note that while the front view of the cylinder represents a series of vertically stacked clusters, certain clusters have workforce roles and other attributes that extend beyond the individual cluster. Clusters with these characteristics are referred to as “n-dimensional” clusters. For example, the Financial Services cluster employs many accountants, financial analysts, and auditors. Yet, all other clusters have a need for accounting, financial analysis, and audit roles as well. Advanced Manufacturing is another “n-dimensional” cluster with roles that span multiple clusters. The two “n- dimensional” clusters with the largest role overlap are the Technology cluster and the Cybersecurity cluster. Software engineers, IT technicians and security engineers permeate every cluster. Therefore, workforce roles and forecasts must be viewed both within a given cluster as well as across multiple clusters in order to develop an accurate view of regional demand.
A Kernel Designed for Regional Prosperity
The Cylinder Model is not theoretical. It’s already operational within the Cybersecurity Cluster. Like a Linux or UNIX kernel, the Cylinder is designed for extensibility. It can scale across new regions, support emerging clusters (e.g., AI, microelectronics, critical materials), and integrate new applications as the ecosystem evolves.
The Cylinder Model enables the EKC Operating System to:
• Identify and prioritize high-impact clusters.
• Deploy strategic Pillars as repeatable system functions.
• Support internal and external modular applications.
• Integrate with infrastructure for real-time, data-driven execution.
This approach transforms economic development from an art into a programmable system—reliable, transparent, measurable, and updatable.
8.
The Application Layer
In the EnterpriseKC economic development operating system, the Application Layer serves as a primary interface between strategy and action Just like in traditional computing, applications on an OS interpret user input and convert system capabilities into real-world functionality. The Application Layer turns strategic potential into measurable, impactful outcomes that grow enterprises, develop talent, and fuel innovation. EKC’s operating
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