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Adoption of network technologies in the presence of converters

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  • Ralf Seifert
  • Arnaud Vare

Abstract

In many high-tech industries, the emergence of new digital technologies allows companies to develop converters to overcome technology incompatibility. In this paper, we analyze the effects of converter introduction on the adoption process of competing, incompatible technologies in the presence of network externalities. Converter introduction may accelerate, extend or reverse the technology lock-in process. We determine which conversion options are profitable for weak as well as for dominant incumbents, depending on the timing of converter introduction and the degrees of conversion. We find that the optimal strategy for weak incumbents is to introduce full one-way converters early. For dominant incumbents, the optimal conversion option is to provide two-way converters with partial compatibility for the users of the competing network at a later introduction time. We illustrate our analytical results with numerical examples.

Suggested Citation

  • Ralf Seifert & Arnaud Vare, 2009. "Adoption of network technologies in the presence of converters," Economics of Innovation and New Technology, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 18(1), pages 69-91.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:ecinnt:v:18:y:2009:i:1:p:69-91
    DOI: 10.1080/10438590701663701
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Fabio Manenti & Ernesto Somma, 2008. "One-Way Compatibility, Two-Way Compatibility and Entry in Network Industries," International Journal of the Economics of Business, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 15(3), pages 301-322.
    2. Paul A. David, 2007. "Path Dependence, its Critics, and the Quest for ‘Historical Economics’," Chapters, in: Geoffrey M. Hodgson (ed.), The Evolution of Economic Institutions, chapter 7, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    3. Knut Blind, 2004. "The Economics of Standards," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 3392.
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