Business Ecosystems & Platforms

A business ecosystem can be described as a network constituted by all organizations and individuals involved in the flow of raw materials, finished products, information, and money, from suppliers to the final consumer.

• False

• True

What is the primary characteristic of a business ecosystem?

• a) A linear relationship between suppliers and customers

• b) A centralized structure controlled by a single company

• c) A network of interconnected organizations that co-evolve

• d) All the statements are correct.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of business ecosystems?

• a) Interdependence of ecosystem members

• b) Shared value creation

• c) Linear structure

• d) Modularity

A successful business ecosystem requires collaboration between different stakeholders, such as suppliers, customers, and even competitors, to create and capture value.

• False.

• True.

Which statement best describes the role of an ecosystem leader?

• a) It has complete control over all players in the ecosystem.

• b) It orchestrates relationships, sets the vision, and ensures value creation.

• c) It provides key materials, technologies, or services to other players in the ecosystem.

• d) It delivers key complementary products and services to extend the core offerings of the ecosystem.

Which stage of the business ecosystem lifecycle is characterized by the stabilization of the ecosystem’s subsystems and processes?

• a) Birth

• b) Expansion

• c) Leadership

• d) Self-Renewal (or Decline)

During the birth phase of a business ecosystem, the main challenge is to define a value proposition and attract key participants.

• False

• True

All business ecosystems are platforms, but not all platforms are business ecosystems.

• False.

• True

A dominant platform benefits from a "winner-takes-all" effect, where it captures a significant market share due to network effects.

• False.

• True.

More users buying PlayStation console attracts more game developers, leading to more available games, which in turn makes the console more attractive to new users.

What type of network effect occurs in this example?

• a) Direct network effect

• b) Indirect network effect

• c) Cross-network effect

• d) Reverse network effect