Title: Platform Business Models

Location: US

Company: Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

About this course:
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.

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

This course provides a strategic perspective to understanding platform business models. In contrast to traditional pipeline businesses, platform business models need different treatment, both in terms of strategies and operations. This course will discuss the unique economics of platform businesses, and the specific decisions leaders in platform firms need to take.

Duration: 5 weeks

Skills:
- Business Modeling
- Economics
- Operations
- Technology Ecosystems

Curriculum:
- 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