The Form Organization is an independent body working to build a state of creativity for Western Australia. This lively and motivated organization is working to enhance WA's competitiveness and creativity through mobilizing the states creative capital. Creative Capital is measured in four area's being:

1) Human Capital. The skills and talents of the human population

2) Social Capital. The connections and interactivity of social networks and organizations.

3) Cultural Capital. The knowledge, customs and rituals that are embedded within a population.

4) Financial Capital. The cash that flows within the local population.

The Form Organization works in a number of areas such as regional development, Indigenous Development, Place Activation and Industry Development. The report that we are focusing on - Comparative Capitals looks at the human, social, cultural and financial capital present in Australia's eight capital cities and ranks them in relation to Perth. To access the report click on this link: Comparative Capitals, which will take you to Forms website.

The main aim of the Form Organization is to develop opportunities for business and social development within Western Australia. Research has found that governments cannot manufacture a "Cluster" that will attract the right people; they have to develop  organically. In the comparative capitals report a cluster is described as something like the "Silicone Valley" of California - A place that young professionals gravitate to and then enrich, developing it into a centre of excellence. Silicon Valley was created by entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and young creative's, as the area's reputation grew so did its ability to attract and retain talent. The Form Organization is applying the same theory to places such as Perth in a bid to develop business and social opportunities for the population.  

The world is  currently seeing the effects of capitalisms creative destruction, the essence of capitalism is changing and the wind of change is permanently blowing. While change is a feature of capitalism, cities and regions have to keep up with this change in order to remain competitive and attract new tallent. One thing that Form is investigating to foster such development is the offering of prizes to draw in creative professionals. Prizes could be awarded by government or by large businesses or organisations to help drive improvements and innovation.  One idea that is being put forward is that of solar-based technology with feed in tariffs that allow excess energy to be sold back to the grid. This could be sponsored by government or business to attract development. Many more opportunities exist to facilitate the development of the region in both a cultural and economic sense.  

In addition to creating these reports, Form also looks at the branding of an area. New Zealand was successfully branded and given a logo which is now recognized the world over - the fern on a black background. Simon Anholt, a British government advisor and author has written four books looking at the branding of countries and regions. One of Simon's books will be reviewed on Radio 2GB over the coming weeks.  

For more information visit Forms excellent and interactive website.  To hear the podcast from tonights broadcast visit Keith Suter Podcasts at Radio 2GB.