| Sumario: | The writers examine the role of contact requirements in the locational tendencies of producer service establishments. They argue that empirical evidence from two demand-side surveys implies that close proximity between vendors and clients is needed for contracts that entail frequent buyer-seller interaction. They assert that these types of contracts are relatively low duration and/or low cost in nature. In addition, they contend that specific activity classes that display these characteristics include data processing, computer software development, product testing, and equipment repair services. Furthermore, they point out that more advanced services such as management consulting and industrial design show lower levels of contact sensitivity. In conclusion, they consider forthcoming prospects for the development of a contact-based model of producer service location.
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