How to Leverage Third-Party Developers in the Mobile Communications Industry: A case study of two mobile phone producers
Abstract: The recent improvement of better, faster and more secure mobile networks have enabled an unbelievable pace of collaboration and connectivity. Web 2.0 makes information and knowledge accessible anywhere, anytime. There is a possibility for companies to integrate this type of thinking, and leverage on external knowledge in order to be more innovative and deliver better customer value. The question is then how external knowledge is best leveraged. This thesis examines how two leading mobile phone producers collaborate and communicate with third-party developers with regards to their mobile service offerings. Drawing from theory of business models, platforms and innovation, the authors make an attempt to identify factors that are likely to influence third-party developers’ engagement and willingness to contribute of developing new mobile service offerings. The conclusions are that the business model should be flexible in order to meet customer demand, the platform neither open nor closed to be able to harness on network externalities, and lastly, giving third-party developers freedom to affect their own possibility of making money when using the platform. In addition, and more in general terms, there is the need for companies to act and think in line with Web 2.0 in order to successfully compete within an evolving industry.
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