The persistence of platform dominance: The role of network, platform, and complementor attributes

Existing research on technology-based platforms emphasizes the contexts that enable platform sponsors to emerge and achieve market dominance. However, this body of research has not addressed the ability of certain platform sponsors to maintain their dominance over time, despite the existence of competing platforms or new entrants. Drawing upon research on network effects, competitive dynamics, and organizational learning, we advance a model that highlights the role of network, platform, and complementor attributes that facilitate or hinder the persistence of a technology-based platform in the market. In doing so, we conceptualize platform dominance as part of a dynamic process, rather than a static outcome as often assumed in previous literature. Our model advances research on user networks and platforms by examining the factors that enhance the continued viability of a platform, and generates a number of important directions for future research on technology management, innovation, and strategy research,...