Cluster analysis of regional competitiveness in Lithuania

The problematic of cluster analysis of regional competitiveness in Lithuania is analyzed in the article. The cluster analysis let to divide the Lithuanian regions into five groups. The analysis of regional competitiveness qualified the cluster analysis and divided the Lithuanian regions into seven groups. Vilnius county belongs to the group of the most competitive regions, Klaipeda and Kaunas - to the group of competitive regions, Telsiai, Siauliai, Alytus, Panevezys, Marijampole - to the group of average competitive regions, Utena - slightly competitive regions, Taurage - not competitive regions. The main economic and social features of each group are also presented in the article. The analysis proved, that the cluster of regions according to the competitiveness, groups together similar regions and allows identifying the main competitors of each regions. Also this establishes a methodological basis for the evaluation of the effectiveness of competing strategies; In order to develop an effective strategies for competing regions, it is required not only a comprehensive strategic planning methodological research, but an effective regional economic and social analysis and strategic planning tools, based on the complexity, reliability, comparability and simplicity; The combination of regional competitiveness index and cluster analysis makes the background for formulation and evaluation the effectiveness of competitive strategies of regions