Modernization of the Russian Economy Based on the Proactive Potential of Big Business: a Conceptual Model

The presented study examines a new approach to the interpretation and structuring of economic modernization as a process implemented by means of the adaptive and proactive potential of entrepreneurship and big business in particular. In this regard, the authors attempt to structure the relationship between proactivity and modernization, to examine risks and regional projections of the process based on the experience of the Novoye Sodruzhestvo Industrial Union and its global unit, Combine Plant Rostselmash.
Aim. The study aims to examine the relationship between proactivity and modernization in the context of the implementation of a multi-pronged adaptive strategy by means of proactivity.
Tasks. The authors analyze the foundation and determine the fundamental significance of the competencies of big business as an actor in the implementation of modernization strategies on an economywide basis.
Methods. This study uses systemic and structural analysis and structuring of the modernization process, taking into consideration the theory of proactivity, theory of bureaucracy and regional economy, and results of business analytics to show that full implementation of modernization vectors in the economy is possible through multi-format application of the competencies, potential, and resources of big business implementing modernization principles in its activities.
Results. The transformation of the current content of modernization processes is substantiated based on the results of consideration of traditional factors and innovation trends. Proactivity is shown to be a modernization mechanism in the context of modern global processes. The structure and content of the proactive activities of market companies are characterized, providing a comparative analysis of proactivity and reactivity in the activities of market agents and the public sector. The correlation between proactive corporate activities and the directions of regional modernization is analyzed through the example of the global business of Combine Plant Rostselmash and the Rostov region as its home region. The results of this study can be used at the regional level in the transformation of approaches to formulating and structuring the priorities and mechanisms of the modernization policy, developing documents regulating modernization transformations and measures aimed at engaging big business in strategizing and programming processes.
Conclusions. The study proves that big business has unique qualities and competencies for the implementation of modernization behavior, which are non-reproducible within the framework of public administration. Thus, the modernization policy should include a set of measures to promote business (including protection of property rights, freedom of trade, increased confidence in the economy) as the bearer of modernization competencies. This approach should be accompanied by a shift in the focus of the government policy towards creating conditions for the implementation of the modernization strategies of big business at the national and regional levels.

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