Platform Competition: A Research Framework and Synthesis of Game-Theoretic Studies

Abstract

One of the more important forces shaping the Digital Economy is the emergence of platform-based ecosystems. The functioning of platform ecosystems is, however, still very poorly understood. More specifically, our received wisdom on rational competitive behaviour is proving to be counter-intuitive when trying to understand platform competition. This article reviews the most relevant issues that are being raised by scholars studying platforms. The proposed research framework addresses theoretical as well as practical managerial concerns found in industry platforms, namely: structural conditions, strategic orientation, platform design elements, value creation mechanisms, and strategic games. The review is supplemented with case studies to help illustrate some of the practical business issues.

Keywords: platform competition, platform ecosystem, multi-sided markets, value co-creation, game-theory