Within a region, each system has its individual pattern, level of resources, plans, leadership, investments and assets. The ability of the Memphis region to effectively compete in the global network lies in the strength and quality of its urban and environmental systems.

Regional systems include the following important components:

Environment: provides the contextual setting for all other systems.

History: provides valuable insight into the forces that have shaped today's Memphis region.

Infrastructure: systems used for transport of water, electricity, and waste and for the facilitation of communication.

Transportation & Logistics: the internal and external linkages connecting the metro to the outside world.

Economic Development: activities and functions occurring in the public and private sectors within the region and between regional centers that create jobs, generate income and support the economy.

Culture & Arts: activities that contribute significantly to the quality of life in the region.

Sports, Convention & Tourism: resources that provide enhanced visibility of the region to the outside world.

Education & Educational Research: contribute to the growth of the region by enhancing the knowledge, skills and abilities of its citizens.

Medical Facilities & Research: support and enhance the health and well being of the metro's residents while contributing to its economy.

Urbanization & Demographics: track the changing patterns of demographic characteristics and urban growth, and the effects they have on the region.

Governance & Public Management: the legal and financial infrastructure and policy necessary to provide the services, make the investments and guide the future of the region.