In this paper we develop a transaction cost perspective of the computer industry evolution and standardization processes in order to evaluate the future of the open source software (OSS) movement, particularly with regard to how the involvement of firms -- as opposed to individuals -- will shape...

The analysis of standardization processes is dominated by the concept of positive network externalities. This paper develops an alternative view on standardization processes which is based on transaction rather than positive network externalities. We call this view the institutional view and...

This chapter develops a transaction cost theoretic model of network effects and applies it to assessing the chances of users to influence, through collective action, the range of technological choices available to them on IT markets. The theoretical basis of the model is formulated through a...

Recent policy discussions have debated whether governments should treat state-owned and private enterprises equally or adopt different policies towards each type of enterprise. Such questions are pertinent for difficult economic climates in which government subsidy towards struggling state-owned...

With the presence of both switching cost and network externality, this paper builds a two-stage model for competition between two platforms. In stage one, an incumbent platform controls the market as a monopolist and sets a price to acquire a user base. In stage two, a new platform enters the...