A Survey of the Economic Role of Software Platforms in Computer-Based Industries

David Evans (), Andrei Hagiu () and Richard Schmalensee

No CESifo Working Paper No. 1314, CESifo Working Paper Series from CESifo Group Munich

Abstract: Software platforms are a critical component of the computer systems underpinning leading– edge products ranging from third– generation mobile phones to video games. After describing some key economic features of computer systems and software platforms, the paper presents case studies of personal computers, video games, personal digital assistants, smart mobile phones, and digital content devices. It then compares several economic aspects of these businesses including their industry evolution, pricing structures, and degrees of integration.

Keywords: software platforms; hardware platforms; network effects; bundling; multi-sided markets (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L11 L15 L86 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2004
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Related works:
Working Paper: A SURVEY OF THE ECONOMIC ROLE OF SOFTWARE PLATFORMS IN COMPUTER - BASED INDUSTRIES (2004)
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