Statistical analysis of spatial unevenness of Russian regions’ innovative development

One of the key problems of the Russian regions’ socio-economic development at the present stage is the increase in spatial unevenness which is manifested in the significant inter-regional differences, including in the innovative sector of the economy. Management decisions taken to reduce inequality should be based on the results of its analysis which should determine adequate measures of influence. This determined the aim of the article which is to substantiate a methodological approach to the analysis of spatial unevenness of the Russian regions’ innovative development. The article provides an overview of methodological approaches to assessing the spatial unevenness of innovative development, based on the application of statistical theory, many of which are focused on solving local problems complicating the choice of state influence instruments. The scientific novelty of the study is in the substantiating a methodological approach consisting of informational, analytical and productive stages allowing to assess the degree of the Russian regions’ development unevenness, assess the level of their innovative development, identify factors determining differences in the territories’ innovative development and designate the type of spatial unevenness. The methodological approach was tested based on the official data of the Federal State Statistical Agency of the Russian Federation, the observation period covered the years of 2000-2017. The results can be used by regional and municipal authorities in the development of innovative policies, the formation of a system of organizational and economic mechanisms to support the region’s innovation sphere, as well as in the development of strategic documents by federal authorities and administrations determining the regions’ spatial development in the future. The research materials presented in the article may be interesting for a scientific discussion, and used in scientific and educational activities.