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Platform and Ecosystem Strategies
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:35
Abstract
In this course, we unpack the strategies that underpin the platform business model, i.e. a business model that creates value by facilitating exchange, collaboration and interaction between several actors. We aim to understand why and how global platform companies have risen to dominate industries and discuss strategies for developing and managing platforms as well as their surrounding ecosystems.
Objective
• Understand the nature of platform businesses • Distinguish platform businesses from input-output businesses • Identify effects of digitalisation on the economics of platforms • Discuss global distribution of value in platform businesses, USA-China-Europe • Develop strategies for platform-based business models • Critically assess and discuss strategic repercussions and pitfalls
Content
Platforms are en vogue. Whether in developing new start-up business ideas, attending academic conferences, or listening in on C-level conversations, the topic of platforms being a new source for growth appears to be omnipresent. In this course on “Platform and Ecosystem Strategies” we will strive to be practically relevant but at the same time maintain conceptual clarity and academic rigor. We will critically unpack the strategies that underpin the platform business model, i.e. business models that create value by facilitating exchange, collaboration and interaction between several actors, often mediated by information and communication technologies. A critical and analytical stance is necessary—just because something is labeled a ‘platform’ does not necessarily makes it a platform. Indeed, in public conversation and in managerial practice there is a certain degree of misunderstanding of the platform and ecosystem concepts that this course seek to address. Content-wise, we will aim to understand the mechanisms by which global platform companies such as Airbnb, Uber, Alibaba or Facebook have risen to dominate industries and displace incumbent firms on the one hand, yet on the other hand what firms in other sectors and industries (e.g., B2B or healthcare) can learn from platform strategy to develop unique positioning on the market. Specifically, we will discuss different types of platforms (such as innovation, transaction or hybrid platforms) and zoom in on the different underlying logics for how they contribute to creating and capturing value. Further, we will gain insights on the inherent limitations behind the economics of a platform and will critically assess strategic repercussions and pitfalls of blindly following the platform bandwagon. Finally, through our case group work, we will develop experience in working with tools to visualize, model, and plan platforms as well as to design, manage and operate surrounding ecosystems.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- ungraded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 40
- Signup End
- 11.01.2026
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar |
Platform and Ecosystem Strategies
Two-day course.
Friday: 09:15-18:00; Saturday: 08:30-16:45.
|
|
16 h semesterly |