Network Effects and Open Source Software
M4 Discussion: Network Effects and Open Source Software
Please read and use quotes from:
· M4 Reading Notes for Discussion and Assignments
· Shapiro, C., & Varian, H.R. (1999). Information Rules: A Strategic Guide to the Network Economy. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Press
Read chapter 7.
· https://pinboard.in/u:frieda.mendelsohn/t:OpenSource/
· https://pinboard.in/u:frieda.mendelsohn/t:network_effects/
· https://pinboard.in/u:frieda.mendelsohn/t:two-sidedMarkets/
Let’s explore the economics of Open Source software – specifically Network Effects. Write a 300 word discussion and use the following format:
· First, research open source software.
o As usual, Wikipedia is a good starting point; however, you are expected to find additional, current sources to inform your work.
· Second, reflect on the concepts in Shapiro and Varian, especially chapter 7.
o How do the concepts from this module relate to what you’ve learned about open source software?
· Third, Discuss!
Here are some questions to use as jumping off points for our discussion, but the discussion should go beyond these points:
What/who are the essential network components for open source software?
What open source software have you heard of? Do you use it? Why or why not?
If you were a programmer, what might encourage you to participate in an open source project?
What other kinds of products might be “open source”? How might they be funded? Are they sustainable?
Be sure to use the concepts and vocabulary used in this module to explain your examples and analysis.
What I’m looking for are: (1) evidence that you’re applying the economic concepts from this, and previous, modules and (2) active participation.
Paper Format: APA
Answer preview to Network Effects and Open Source Software
APA
380 words