You'll explore how companies create and capture value in interconnected business networks. The course covers platform strategies, network effects, multi-sided markets, and ecosystem governance. You'll analyze case studies of successful platforms like Amazon, Uber, and Airbnb, and learn how traditional firms can transform into platform businesses.

Is Business Ecosystems and Platforms hard?

It's not the easiest class, but it's not impossible either. The concepts can be pretty abstract at first, and you'll need to wrap your head around some complex business models. But once it clicks, it's actually pretty interesting. The hardest part is usually applying the theories to real-world cases, so stay on top of your readings and you'll be fine.

Tips for taking Business Ecosystems and Platforms in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Stay updated on tech news - it'll help you understand real-world applications
Practice explaining network effects to friends - if you can teach it, you know it
Create mind maps to visualize ecosystem relationships
Watch "The Social Network" for a dramatized look at platform creation
Read "The Business of Platforms" by Cusumano, Gawer, and Yoffie for extra insights
Join online forums or discussion groups about platform businesses

Common pre-requisites for Business Ecosystems and Platforms

Introduction to Business: Covers fundamental business concepts, organizational structures, and basic management principles. It's a great foundation for understanding how businesses operate.
Principles of Marketing: Explores core marketing concepts, consumer behavior, and market analysis. This class helps you understand how platforms attract and retain users.
Business Strategy: Focuses on competitive advantage, industry analysis, and strategic decision-making. It provides a solid base for understanding how ecosystems fit into broader business strategies.

Classes similar to Business Ecosystems and Platforms

Digital Business Strategy: Examines how technology is reshaping business models and competitive landscapes. You'll learn about digital transformation and its impact on various industries.
Innovation Management: Explores the process of bringing new ideas to market. This class covers topics like disruptive innovation and open innovation ecosystems.
Network Economics: Dives into the economic principles behind networked markets. You'll study concepts like network externalities and tipping points.
Technology Entrepreneurship: Focuses on starting and scaling tech-based ventures. This class often includes discussions on platform business models and ecosystem strategies.

Business Administration: Provides a broad understanding of business operations, management, and strategy. Students learn to analyze complex business environments and make strategic decisions.
Information Systems: Focuses on the intersection of technology and business. Students learn how to leverage IT to create value and drive business innovation.
Digital Business: Explores how digital technologies are transforming business models and markets. Students gain skills in digital strategy, data analytics, and platform management.
Entrepreneurship: Teaches students how to identify opportunities, develop business models, and launch ventures. It often includes coursework on innovative business models, including platforms and ecosystems.

What can you do with a degree in Business Ecosystems and Platforms?

Platform Strategy Consultant: Advise companies on how to build and manage successful platform businesses. You'll help firms navigate the challenges of ecosystem creation and growth.
Digital Transformation Manager: Lead initiatives to help traditional companies adopt platform-based business models. You'll work on projects to redesign business processes and leverage ecosystem partnerships.
Ecosystem Partnership Manager: Develop and manage relationships with key partners in a company's business ecosystem. You'll negotiate deals, coordinate joint initiatives, and ensure mutual value creation.
Tech Entrepreneur: Start your own platform-based business or digital marketplace. You'll apply your knowledge of ecosystem dynamics to create innovative business models.