Focusing on the economic issues that are relevant to information technology and a networked economy
M5 Discussion: What Do YOU Mean When You Say Open?
Up to this point in the course we have been focusing on the economic issues that are relevant to information technology and a networked economy. In this final module, we’ll build on this foundation to examine the strategies firms use to compete in a networked market. There are two general classifications of strategies: openness strategies (which are based on cooperation with allies) and control strategies (which are based not on cooperation, but on competing, incompatibilities).
Which class of strategy does establishing standards fall into? The answer is, “it depends.” Using home automation as the live case, you will look at standards as both as an openness and a control strategy.
Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
identify different strategies for competing effectively in networked markets
explore the various meanings of “open”
apply conceptual analysis to the real world
analyze a live case using the theoretical framework
Please read and use quotes from:
· M5 Reading Notes for Discussion (attached)
· Shapiro, C., & Varian, H.R. (1999). Information Rules: A Strategic Guide to the Network Economy. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Press
Chapters 8 & 9
Review Shapiro and Varian, chapters 1 through 7, particularly the “lessons” at the end of the chapters
FM’s bookmarks – current examples illustrating concepts. You might find some of these articles useful/interesting.
Pinboard: bookmarks for frieda.mendelsohn tagged ‘standards’
Assignment requirements: Write a 300 word discussion and use the following format:
Let’s explore the various meanings of “open” (which are based on cooperation with allies) from the point of view of this module.
Is an open system an openness strategy?
Do open standards ensure openness?
What do YOU mean when you say open?
What I’m looking for are (1) evidence that you’re applying the concepts from this, and previous, modules and (2) active participation. This means that you are part of the discussion, that you exchange ideas with others. The minimum expectation is that you post your initial response to this question AND that you reply to at least two other posts. If someone asks you a question, you should reply.
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