Intensity and qualitative characteristics of structural changes in transition economies

The paper presents alternative analytical approaches to evaluation of structural changes in selected transition economies (Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia). The analysis starts from the comparison of intensity of structural changes, as an introductory (quantitative) concept measuring structural adjustment capacity. Besides the intensity of structural changes, the need for developing adequate tools evaluating the qualitative aspects of structural changes has been stressed. The analysis starts from presentation of alternative theoretical concepts of technology change, with special regard to its industry and firm specific aspects. The qualitative criteria of industry structure include: material and immaterial type of inputs, level of technology intensity, market concentration and product differentiation, and skills intensity. Finally, the intensity and qualitative characteristics of structural changes are combined to indicate the capacity of the transition economies in closing the technology gap.

Keywords: structural changes, transition economies, technology change, adjustment capacity, technology gap