Platform Business Models from edX

This MOOC on platform business models will take a strategic perspective to understanding business that operate as platforms. In contrast to conventional pipeline business models, platform business model firms make certain unique decisions.

The first module of this course will introduce the learner to the core concepts around platforms and network economics. The second module will elaborate on network effects in the context of platforms and ecosystems, and provide insights into how platforms mobilize their networks and solve the penguin problems.

The third module elucidates the criteria used by platform firms in their pricing decisions and introduces the various pricing models available for platform pricing. The fourth module highlights the value architecture of platform firms, including trade-offs around openness and proprietary nature of complement engagements. The final module provides insights into competing in a platform ecosystem, including managing oligopolistic markets, and issues in regulating platforms.

What you'll learn

At the end of this course, you will

Understand the differences between conventional and platform business models
Appreciate the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm
Understand the role of complementors and other ecosystem participants in the operations and success of platform firms
Appreciate the nuances of specific decisions to take in architecting and operating a platform business

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the differences between conventional and platform business models
Appreciate the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm

Understand the role of complementors and other ecosystem participants in the operations and success of platform firms
Appreciate the nuances of specific decisions to take in architecting and operating a platform business

Understand the differences between conventional and platform business models
Appreciate the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm
Understand the role of complementors and other ecosystem participants in the operations and success of platform firms
Appreciate the nuances of specific decisions to take in architecting and operating a platform business

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores platform business models, which are increasingly common in online and digital spaces

Taught by Srinivasan R., who are highly regarded for their work in platform business models

Develops an understanding of the unique decisions and strategies involved in building and operating a platform firm

Examines the economics and strategies in building a successful platform firm

Students will learn about the value architecture of platform firms, including trade-offs around openness and proprietary nature of complement engagements

Explores how platform firms mobilize their networks and solve the 'penguin problems

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Platform Business Models with these activities:

Read 'Platform Revolution' by Geoffrey G. Parker and Marshall W. Van Alstyne

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Gain insights into the transformative power of platform business models and their impact on industries and society.

View Platform Revolution: How Networked Markets Are... on Amazon

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Acquire a copy of the book
Read and take notes on key concepts
Summarize and discuss the main ideas with peers

Practice algorithmic thinking

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Develop a strong foundation in algorithmic thinking to enhance your problem-solving abilities and prepare for the course content.

Browse courses on Algorithms

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Review basic data structures and algorithms
Solve coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank
Participate in online coding competitions

Follow tutorials on network effects and value architecture

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Supplement your course knowledge by exploring specialized tutorials that delve into specific aspects of platform businesses.

Browse courses on Network Effects

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Identify reputable sources or platforms offering tutorials
Select tutorials on topics of interest
Complete the tutorials and take notes

Five other activities

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Develop a platform business model canvas

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Apply the concepts of platform business models by creating a canvas that outlines the key elements of a specific platform.

Browse courses on Platform Business Models

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Identify the target market and value proposition
Define the platform's core activities and resources
Analyze the revenue streams and cost structure
Evaluate the competitive landscape and potential partnerships

Engage in peer-led discussions on platform business models

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Foster deeper understanding by actively engaging in discussions with peers, sharing insights, and challenging perspectives.

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Form a study group or join an online discussion forum
Choose topics for discussion and prepare talking points
Participate actively in discussions and share knowledge

Attend a workshop on platform ecosystem management

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Enhance your understanding of the dynamics and management of platform ecosystems through a specialized workshop.

Browse courses on Platform Ecosystems

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Identify workshops or conferences focusing on platform ecosystems
Register and attend the workshop
Actively participate in discussions and networking

Attend industry events focused on platform businesses

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Connect with professionals in the field by attending industry events that showcase the latest trends and innovations in platform businesses.

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Identify relevant industry events
Register and attend the events
Network with industry experts and thought leaders

Solve case studies on platform competition and regulation

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Develop analytical skills by working through case studies that examine the challenges and opportunities in platform ecosystems.

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Find relevant case studies online or in academic journals
Analyze the case studies and identify key issues
Develop recommendations and solutions

Career center

Learners who complete Platform Business Models will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Management Consultant

Management consultants help businesses improve their performance. They may work on a variety of projects, including strategy, operations, and technology. This course may be useful to management consultants who advise businesses on platform strategy. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant

Data Analyst

Data analysts help businesses understand their data and make better decisions. They may work on a variety of projects, including data cleaning, data analysis, and data visualization. This course may be useful to data analysts who are working with platform businesses. The course provides insights into the network effects that platform businesses experience and the different ways that platform businesses can mobilize their networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts help businesses make financial decisions. They may work on a variety of projects, including financial planning, investment analysis, and risk management. This course may be useful to financial analysts who are working with platform businesses. The course provides insights into the pricing decisions that platform firms make and the different pricing models that are available.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Product Manager

Product managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to create products that meet the needs of customers. This course may be useful to product managers who are working on platform products. The course provides insights into the value architecture of platform firms and the trade-offs around openness and proprietary nature of complement engagements.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts help governments develop and implement policies. They may work on a variety of issues, including healthcare, education, and environmental protection. This course may be useful to policy analysts who are working on policies that affect platform businesses. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Entrepreneur

Entrepreneurs start and run their own businesses. They may work in a variety of industries, including technology, retail, and healthcare. This course may be useful to entrepreneurs who are starting or running platform businesses. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Entrepreneur

Researcher

Researchers conduct research to advance knowledge and understanding in a particular field. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutes, and businesses. This course may be useful to researchers who are studying platform businesses. The course provides insights into the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm.

See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher

Project Manager

Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including project team members, clients, and suppliers, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course may be useful to project managers who are working on platform projects. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform projects face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Business Analyst

Business analysts help businesses understand their operations and make better decisions. They may work on a variety of projects, including process improvement, financial analysis, and market research. This course may be useful to business analysts who are working with platform businesses. The course provides insights into the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Marketing Manager

Marketing managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including customers, partners, and the media, to promote products and services. This course may be useful to marketing managers who are working on marketing platform products. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Consultant

Consultants help businesses solve problems and improve their performance. They may provide advice on a variety of topics, including strategy, operations, and technology. This course may be useful to consultants who advise businesses on platform strategy. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Sales Manager

Sales managers are responsible for generating revenue for their companies. They work with a team of sales representatives to identify and close deals. This course may be useful to sales managers who are selling platform products. The course provides insights into the pricing decisions that platform firms make and the different pricing models that are available.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Technology Analyst

Technology analysts help businesses understand the impact of technology on their operations. They may also provide recommendations on how to use technology to improve efficiency and productivity. This course may be useful to technology analysts as it provides insights into the economics and strategies behind building a platform firm. This knowledge can be helpful for technology analysts who work with businesses that are considering developing or using platforms.

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Software Engineer

Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They may work on a variety of projects, including web development, mobile development, and data science. This course may be useful to software engineers who are working on platform products. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Operations Manager

Operations managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their companies. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, and customers, to ensure that the company runs smoothly. This course may be useful to operations managers who are working for platform businesses. The course provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that platform businesses face.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager