This is the first chapter in Part 3. Its purpose is to contrast the value structure of platform systems with step processes from a technological perspective. I first review the basic technical architecture of computers and argue that every computer is inherently a platform for performing...

To increase the value and reduce the costs and risks of global software outsourcing, clients and developers are 'synching': building congruence along six identified 'COCPIT' dimensions. Case studies from a longitudinal research project identify practical synching strategies used by North...

that disperses processes to different locations. This paper presents a global software project case study, in which development work was divided between the UK and India. It focuses on two issues: the uncertainties that arise because of differences between project locations, and the coordination...

The purpose of this chapter is to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive theoretical investigation of open platform systems. To do this, we must first recognize that, although there is a strong family resemblance among all platform systems, there are different types of platforms, each with its...

The purpose of this chapter is to use the theory of bottlenecks laid out in previous chapters to better understand the dynamics of an open standards-based platform. I describe how the Wintel platform evolved from 1990 through 2000 under joint sponsorship of Intel and Microsoft. I first describe...

Die Computerspieleentwicklung steht wie kaum eine andere Branche in Europa für kreative Wissensarbeit unter z. T. riskanten Beschäftigungsbedingungen. Die weltweiten Zahlen des Computerspielemarktes deuten darauf hin, dass wir es mit einer wachsenden Branche zu tun haben, deren Bedeutung in...

This research explores the benefits of Companies House (CH) data to businesses, consumers and wider society. The data is accessed billions of times a year. Using a stated preference approach, the study: estimates the willingness of direct users and smaller intermediaries' to pay for CH data;...