Policy makers at all levels are discovering the notion of creative industries: the music industry, literature and book market, art market, film and television industries, performing arts, design, architecture, advertising, software / computer games - from economic and innovation strategies to education policy and urban development, the creative industries are being described as a model for success. However, strategies for real, practical implementation remain vague.

This publication provides a greatly needed overview of the concepts and specific characteristics of this sector. It analyzes the international discourse, presents up-to-date empirical-statistical Europe-wide analyses, derives models and draws conclusions for the current debate in Switzerland, and places special emphasis on the innovative potential of the creative scene and its dynamics for the entire creative industry.

Christoph Weckerle and Manfred Gerig, School of Art and Design, Zurich; Michael Söndermann, cultural statistician.

Introduction.- Gobal analysis of the debate.- Consequences for the discussion on the creative industries in Switherland.- Empiric portrait of Switzerland and international comparison.- The creative culture as driver of the creative industries.- Recommendations for action.