The presented study examines methodological approaches to poverty assessment as a social indicator of economic security of Russian regions and countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Aim. The study aims to analyze the level of poverty in Russian regions, including in relation to the dynamics of inequality indicators.

Tasks. The authors address the problems of developing a comprehensive approach to poverty assessment in Russia with a view to further develop public policy measures that would allow for a radical reduction in poverty and analyze the dynamics of the poverty level indicator in the EAEU countries, determining the distinctive features of this phenomenon in the countries that are most economically integrated with Russia.

Methods. This study uses the methods of systems analysis, econometric analysis, evolutionary-institutional theory, and historical approach.

Results. Analysis of the absolute poverty indicator in regions shows a significant disparity between regions in terms of the proportion of citizens with incomes below the absolute poverty line. In all EAEU countries, the level of poverty decreased over the past 12 years, but the dynamics of this indicator is diverging.

Conclusions. It is not uncommon for the regions of the Russian Federation with lower absolute poverty to have a higher Gini coefficient. EAEU countries use different methods for calculating the poverty level. Looking ahead, it seems appropriate to standardize the methodology for calculating poverty levels in EAEU countries, introduce a uniform standard for calculating this indicator, and develop joint comprehensive measures aimed at reducing poverty in EAEU member states.

The presented study analyzes the modern models of geographically distributed organizational and economic systems and specific aspects of strategic management of these systems.

Aim. The study aims to examine the specific aspects of strategic management of such modern forms of geographically distributed organizational and economic systems as clusters and special economic zones.

Tasks. The authors examine the nature and features of the major modern forms of geographically distributed organizational and economic systems, namely, clusters and special economic zones; identify innovative models within these forms: priority development areas, industrial, commercial, and technological parks, technopolises, innovation centers, etc.; substantiate methodological approaches to the strategic management of these innovative formations in general as well as formation of the corresponding organizational management structures and a set of strategies of different hierarchical levels.

Methods. This study uses general scientific methods of cognition and strategic management methods to examine geographically distributed organizational and economic systems and their innovative models and to propose a set of hierarchical strategies for the development of innovative formations.

Results. In the current context of formation and development of the Russian digital economy, clusters and special economic zones are becoming increasingly widespread forms of geographically distributed organizational and economic systems. This has facilitated the emergence of various innovative models of the corresponding systems: priority development areas, industrial, commercial, and technological parks, technolopolises, innovation centers, technology transfer centers, business incubators, etc. In view of these models, the authors present the specific aspects of their strategic management and provide recommendations on the structure and functions of strategic management bodies – supervisory boards and managing companies. The authors also propose a system of strategies of different hierarchical levels for such formations, including areas for the application of advanced digital and marketing technologies.

Conclusion. Economic development has led to the emergence of new forms of geographically distributed organizational and economic systems – clusters and special economic zones. The study substantiates methodological approaches to the strategic management of these innovative formations in general as well as formation of the corresponding organizational management structures and a set of strategies of different hierarchical levels.

The presented study addresses the problems of development of small and medium towns in Russia. Aim. The study aims to examine a town as a socio-economic environment where its residents exist and as the fundamental factor for the development of society.

Tasks. The authors identify key problems in the development of small and medium Russian towns, which interferes with the historical appearance and has a negative impact on the living environment.

Methods. Problems in the development of small and medium towns in Russia are examined using theoretical methods: systematic approach, statistical analysis, social and philosophical analysis.

Results. The study identifies the main negative effects of the existing model of development of small and medium Russian towns, such as destruction of their historical and cultural appearance, distortion of the overall architectural motif, increased load on communications, and congestion of the transport infrastructure.

Conclusions. At the current stage, efficient development of small and medium towns in Russia is impossible within the framework of the existing infill development. This chaotic process cannot be stopped without a new conceptual approach and changes in the legislative and normative framework of urban development. The only factor that determines the boundaries of the existing approach to urban development is the lack of physical space for new buildings in urban areas. The authors formulate proposals that would help to solve the problems of development of small and medium towns in Russia.

The presented study examines the specific aspects of operation of energy enterprises in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation.

Aim. The study aims to identify the current problems in the operation of energy enterprises in the Arctic territories by analyzing their state and development and thus to substantiate the selection of perspective directions for improving the efficiency of their management.

Tasks. The authors show the role and importance of energy supply for the functioning of the socioeconomic system of the Arctic territories, analyze the major performance indicators of energy enterprises, and substantiate recommendations on improving the organization of their activities.

Methods. This study uses the methodology of economic analysis, trend analysis, structural analysis, and specific methods of regional economic analysis.

Results. One of the crucial current problems in the development of the energy complex in the Russian Arctic zone is the high level of debt in the accounts, which leads to an imbalance in the current activities of energy enterprises. Furthermore, formation of electricity tariffs depends on the money paid for the generation and transportation of electricity and the services of distribution companies. This is due to the lack of continuous monitoring of the state of accounts and the lack of a legal framework for settling differences between network and energy supply companies, which are not given sufficient attention in economic studies.

Conclusions. According to the results of the study, the authors propose the major directions for improving regulation of the development and operation of energy enterprises in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation.

The presented study examines statistics on the construction of infrastructural objects in the Russian Federation.

Aim. The study aims to analyze the allocation of federal and regional infrastructural facilities with allowance for socio-economic positions.

Tasks. The authors examine the commissioning of different types of infrastructural facilities in the Russian Federation, identify regional peculiarities of their allocation, and assess the socio-economic implications of large-scale construction of similar facilities in Sochi in preparation for the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Methods. This study uses systems analysis methods and data of the Federal State Statistics Service to conduct a retrospective study of the current situation in Russia, structural dynamic analysis of the allocation of infrastructural facilities across the country’s regions, and an assessment of socioeconomic indicators.

Results. The current trends in the allocation of the major types of infrastructural facilities in modern Russia are determined. Regions with the most favorable conditions for the development of such facilities are identified. A methodology for planning corresponding projects with allowance for their mutual influence and funding restrictions is developed. Changes in the quality of life of Sochi residents due to the construction of facilities in preparation for the 2014 Winter Olympics are assessed.

Conclusions. Construction of federal and regional infrastructural facilities affects the socio-economic development of the corresponding regions and serves to improve the quality of life of the local population. In Russia, there is a positive dynamics in terms of the allocation of such facilities. However, these effects are perceived controversially, and the trends towards improving the quality of life (through the example of Sochi) do not align with the results of large-scale construction in the region. When planning federal and regional development programs for the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, it is advisable to conduct an in-depth multi-factor forecasting of social and economic implications of the implementation of such programs.

The importance of the subject of this study is attributable to the need of developing the theory and practice of formation of bank marketing, its features and new trends associated with this concept. Prospects for the development of banks and their ability to quickly and efficiently address new challenges presented by the market can be determined through modern forms, methods of management and creative use of financial marketing opportunities.

Aim. The presented study aims to examine the specific aspects, principles, conditions, factors of emergence, and prospects for the development of bank marketing and forms of its management in modern economic conditions.

Tasks. The authors identify the major trends and perspective directions in the development of bank marketing in Azerbaijan at the current stage.

Methods. As its methodological and theoretical basis, this study uses a systems approach to the analysis of its subject, conceptual approaches outlined in the works of Azerbaijani, Russian, and foreign scientists in the field of bank marketing. These methods are used to determine the essence of bank marketing, present the types and organization of marketing research, and identify the characteristic traits, new forms, and directions for the development of bank marketing.

Results. The study uses general scientific methods of cognition in various aspects to identify characteristic traits, trends, and new directions of bank marketing. A review of scientific publications shows that academic papers tend to focus on general conceptual approaches to the practical application of marketing. The authors believe that the issues of organization of a comprehensive bank management system, its implementation based on innovations in the promotion of banking products and services in the financial market, and substantiation of channels for their distribution among consumers are insufficiently explored. This makes the subject of this study extremely relevant due to the inevitable optimization of the organizational structure of banks through comprehensive implementation of the marketing system.

Conclusions. Theoretical and practical issues of bank marketing are examined. As a result, the specific features and characteristic traits of this mechanism, conditions and factors for its emergence, and its prospects in the context of the digital economy are analyzed.

The presented study explores opportunities for improving the efficiency of financial business support institutions with the purpose of enhancing the competitiveness of the regional economy.

Aim. The study aims to identify opportunities and new tools for stimulating economic activity in regions through institutional business support measures.

Tasks. The authors analyze the current performance and adequacy of financial business support tools utilized by development institutions at the regional level (through the example of the Rostov region) and formulate proposals on financial business support.

Methods. This study uses general scientific methods of cognition (analysis, generalization, economic modeling, etc.) to examine the efficiency of business support provided by development institutions in various aspects and to identify the major directions for improving their operation.

Results. Given the current economic situation in the national and global financial markets, the ability of regions to provide financial support to entrepreneurs (in particular, by reducing the cost of application of borrowed funds) is a key factor of their investment attractiveness. As a result, it is possible to achieve sustainable economic growth, which lays the foundation for the long-term competitiveness of the regional economy.

Conclusion. Expanding the scope of institutional financial support at the meso-level in the basic non-resource industries and implementing a policy to support and maintain the financial stability of systemic companies in the region facilitates entrepreneurial activity and contributes to the development of the regional economy.

The presented study adapts the TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM) to the development and implementation of architectural solutions in FMCG chain retailing.

Aim. The study aims to adapt TOGAF ADM to the development and implementation of architectural solutions in FMCG chain retailing.

Tasks. The authors formulate a definition of FMCG chain retailing architecture, determine the detail levels of architectural solutions, develop a basic architecture model, and examine the transition from the basic towards the target architecture. Building an efficient architectural solution for FMCG chain retailing enterprises using ADM requires creating a functional model and identifying groups of architectural areas for consistent architecture construction.

Methods. The architecture of FMCG chain retailing is an efficient planning tool that combines the IT architecture of chain retailing with business architecture and makes it possible to achieve the strategic objectives of chain retailing. By developing an architectural solution, it becomes possible to determine business structure, systematize information for efficient business operations, build a map of the company’s business processes, and identify appropriate technologies to support these processes. The preliminary phase of building an architecture begins with the development of the business concept of a chain retailing company based on a business model. Starting with the preliminary phase, the working group launches an architecture project, goes through all the phases from the first stage to the last, and then launches the next project.

Results. ADM TOGAF does not necessarily involve planning methods, which is why the result largely depends on the opinion of the working group. During TOGAF ADM activity, particular attention should be paid to the analysis of factors that affect the implementation and planned changes. Architecture blocks and architecture roadmap are two important elements of the development process. After analyzing the differences between the basic and the target architecture models (gap analysis), it is necessary to identify transient, excludable, and input architecture blocks, set and harmonize similar requirements for similar business processes, specify risks, and develop a strategy for the implementation of the target architecture. When making decisions, special attention should be paid to the priority of the chosen architectural solutions, formation of transit architectures (if necessary), and development of a plan for the implementation of the architectural roadmap in FMCG chain retailing.

Conclusions. In the context of reengineering business processes of chain retailing companies, the most solid basis for building architectural solutions using ADM would be the company’s functional model. The proposed ADM adaptation on the basis of the functional model significantly increases the effi-ciency of development and management of architecture development for FMCG chain retailing companies.

The presented study aims to examine the current state and development prospects of self-regulation in the Russian construction industry.

Aim. The study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current state and development prospects of self-regulation as an institution of public administration, identify the problems of self-regulation in the construction industry, and formulate proposals on solving the identified problems.

Tasks. The authors complete the following tasks to achieve the set aim: examine the regulatory framework of the activities of self-regulatory organizations in the construction industry — construction, design, and engineering surveying; analyze the current state and positive trends of self-regulation in the field of construction; identify problems in the activities of self-regulatory organizations in the construction industry — construction, design, and engineering surveying — and development prospects of the examined alternative to government regulation.

Methods. The methodological basis of the study comprises the fundamental provisions of the modern economic theory, theories of public and municipal administration and legal sciences. The information base includes regulatory and legal acts of the Russian Federation on self-regulation in the construction industry, data from the State Register of Self-Regulatory Organizations, and statistics in the field of construction.

Results. At the current stage of development of self-regulation in the construction industry, the most efficient mechanism for this institution involves guaranteed compensation for damage caused due to shortcomings in the works and services during construction, renovation, capital repairs of construction objects, engineering surveying, design. The victims should be compensated not out of insurance payments under civil insurance contracts, but rather out of the compensation funds of self-regulatory organizations.

Conclusion. This study makes it possible to assess the institution of self-regulation in the construction industry — construction, design, and engineering surveying — as an efficient institution for proper protection of the interests of consumers of construction works and services and those of the government.

The presented study examines human capital and methods of its assessment at the micro-level of the economic system, in the activities of trading enterprises.

Aim. The study aims to substantiate a methodological approach to the assessment and prediction of the human capital of a trading enterprise using the concept of enterprise value management.

Tasks. The authors determine the importance of human capital for the efficiency of managing a trading enterprise, explore the essence of human capital and specific aspects of its analysis at the micro-

level of the economic system, and propose a combined method for assessing and predicting human capital indicators at an enterprise.

Methods. This study uses the methods of institutional and structural analysis, assessment of investment projects, systems analysis, enterprise value management, and specific methods of human capital research.

Results. The study provides a detailed description of human capital with allowance for the specific aspects of its manifestation at the micro-level of the economic system and industry-specific features of trade; examines the methods of and approaches to the assessment of efficiency of investments in human capital, also taking into account industry-specific features; proposes a combined method for human capital assessment at a trading enterprise based on a combination of CIV and MVAIC methods and a criterion for the assessment of efficiency of investments in human capital based on the relationship between the value of investment and human capital growth during the reporting period.

Conclusions. A new method for assessing and predicting the human capital of trading enterprises is proposed. It is harmonized with a value-based approach to management and can be integrated into the management systems of trading enterprises.

Aim. The presented study aims to improve the quality function deployment methodology in innovation development with allowance for the principles of the value co-creation methodology.

Tasks. The authors analyze the essence of the value co-creation concept in innovation development, examine the quality function deployment (QFD) methodology as a basic tool for the development of competitive incremental innovations, and propose their own revised methodology that combines the elements of co-creation and co-production on the part of the consumer.

Methods. The methodological basis of the study comprises the scientific concepts of economic theory and innovation theory. This study also uses such general scientific methods as systems and complex approach, economic and statistical analysis to substantiate theoretical assumptions and rationalize the conclusions.

Results. The authors recommend using a digital double of the developed innovation (product or technology) during quality function deployment. The usefulness of the digital double is confirmed by an example from one of the authors’ practice. During the development of the so-called technical benchmarking rooms for an innovation, the authors propose calculating competitiveness based on a customer satisfaction index (CSI). The classical quality function deployment methodology makes it possible to assess the superiority/lag of the developed innovation compared with the existing prototypes along a number of parameters. Calculation of the CSI indicator makes it possible to assess the developed innovation in terms of its conformity with the customer’s ideal, and give an indication of its overall superiority/lag in comparison with the existing prototypes. The authors propose a modification of the organizational structure, which is supposed to be engaged in the development of a competitive innovation based on the value co-creation methodology. In addition to the roles of developer, financial analyst, and marketer, a representative of the customer (buyer of innovation) is introduced into the group. Representatives of suppliers with long-term contracts are planned to be involved in the group’s work. As a whole, this type of organizational structure results in a significant synergistic effect of cooperation within the “supplier — manufacturer/developer — end consumer” system.

Conclusions. This study proposes a modification of the quality function deployment methodology with allowance for additional customer preferences as well as production and service functions that the customer is ready to take on.

The presented study explores opportunities for using the balanced scorecard methodology in the development of measures to counter the shadow economy and corruption with allowance for their systemic and interdisciplinary nature.

Aim. The study aims to substantiate the efficiency of using the balanced scorecard methodology in the development of a state policy to counter the shadow economy and corruption.

Tasks. The author determines and describes the systemic nature of the shadow economy as the subject of the study, which does not allow for aspectual countermeasures; proposes an algorithm for developing a state policy to counter the shadow economy and corruption using the balanced scorecard meth-

odology, by setting a goal, objectives, and methods of influence; identifies the major projections of the system, objects of monitoring, and subjects of control; recommends focus areas for working with the information base obtained as a result of monitoring, which are crucial for ensuring the security of the institutional environment.

Methods. This study uses the methodology of the systemic and institutional approach to the research of economic phenomena and processes, methods of systems analysis and modeling.

Results. It is established that threats generated by the institutional environment are the main factor in the development of the shadow sector of the national economy. The operational conditions of economic entities, which have developed within the economic, political, and socio-cultural environment, are too burdensome for ensuring profitability as a key business goal. The study provides an example of an algorithm for developing a policy to counter the shadow economy and corruption based on the balanced scorecard. The major identified projections are the spiritual, moral, political, social, and economic projections. The projections are selected in accordance with the areas where threats to the security of the institutional environment emerge.

Conclusion. The author proposes directions for monitoring and further work on decomposing the set goal to the level of operational activities in the aspect of combating shadow economic transactions.