Open Data, Big Data and Crowdsourcing : Emergent Mobile Apps Business Models

The aim of this paper is to discuss the business model of a free social GPS mobile app for public transportation. The app functioning relies on open data and crowdsourcing. The crossing of transporter data (open data) and service users' data (crowdsourcing) feed the app's algorithm, which in the end enhance the public transportation experience. The hinge and tensions between for profit and not for profit sides of the data stemming from open data and crowdsourcing are questioned in the implementation of the company business model as well as the role and function of the business model in the start-up strategy