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Common typology of multi-sided platforms and virtual communities: analysis of business models using qualitative system dynamics

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  • Tymoteusz Doligalski

    (SGH Warsaw School of Economics)

Abstract

This article presents a common typology of multi-sided platforms and virtual communities. The analysed entities comprise 69 of Poland’s most prominent websites, representing one of two business models. Based on three dimensions: collaboration among users, reputation-based user competition, and user multi-sidedness, we identified four business models. These are problem community, object community, object market, and reputation market. The differences in their logics of value creation go beyond the traditional division between multi-sided platforms and virtual communities. The identified business models were depicted in qualitative system dynamics diagrams. The typology was verified using the statistical clustering technique, which yielded corresponding results.

Suggested Citation

  • Tymoteusz Doligalski, 2025. "Common typology of multi-sided platforms and virtual communities: analysis of business models using qualitative system dynamics," Electronic Commerce Research, Springer, vol. 25(2), pages 951-985, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:elcore:v:25:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s10660-023-09700-w
    DOI: 10.1007/s10660-023-09700-w
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