Dynamics of Interregional Differentiation in Russian Regions Based on the Level of Development of Information and Communication Technologies

Abstract

The purpose of this study is identifying criteria and evaluation of interregional differentiation of information and communication space of Russia. The analysis of modern research and publications on the subject of the study of differentiation of space by the level of development of information and communication technologies was made. Demonstrated the specifics of different cross-country differentiation, it is established that In contrast to the estimation of situation of cross-country differentiation, mark of positive tendency in development of interregional differentiation becomes convergence of regional information and communication technologies indicators, as well as unidirectional character of changes in regions. Multiple methods of estimating interregional differentiation are narrowed down to two basic approaches and to established their strength and weaknesses. We suggest measuring interregional differentiation of information and communication space in Russia by using both approaches. The main tendencies in specialty of development in differentiation of Russian Federation based on the indicators that characterize the information and communication component of regional development are shown. Quantitative estimations that characterize the level of informatization of Russian regions are built. It is defined that interregional differentiation of information and communication space is mainly high based on most of the estimate indicators. Established tendency of reduction in interregional differentiation on the criteria of informatization indicates that there is a positive territorial socio-economic transformation. It is determined that high level of development of information and communication technologies is typical for cities of federal importance and mining regions. Low and medium levels of informatization is typical for regions of different economic specialization, including those regions that are positioned as innovative regions.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n6s2p384