Haven�t seen a book or article by that name; but I�ve seen a lot on the
subject. The basic idea is that the value of a tool -- particularly a
communications tool -- tends to grow with the number of users. That part of
the theory -- sort of the �Weak Theory of Network Externalities� -- is
pretty well accepted. The next part is more controversial: the claim that
the network value can overwhelm all other questions of value and �stick� the
market with an inferior choice. This �Strong Theory of Network
Externalities� is controversial because many of the classic examples cited
are not nearly as universally accepted as is the weaker version of the
theory.
Here�s a link to one page with one view on the subject. Be warned that the
page authors are promoting the sales of their book, which is specifically an
assault on the Strong Theory. I happen to agree with them; but you should be
aware that others strongly disagree. And they provide good bibliographies,
so you should be able to find opposing literature from there.
http://wwwpub.utdallas.edu/~liebowit/netpage.html
Here are some other useful links cited therein:
http://wwwpub.utdallas.edu/~liebowit/palgrave/palpd.html -- A lengthy
definition/discussion of Path Dependence: the idea that decisions are based
in part on the path that led up to them. This ties in to network
externalities, because the growth of a network is one type of path. Same
authors, same point of view.
http://wwwpub.utdallas.edu/~liebowit/palgrave/network.html -- A lengthy
definition/discussion of Network Effects (a.k.a. Network Externalities).
Same authors, same point of view.
Martin L. Shoemaker
Emerald Software, Inc. -- Custom Software and UML Training
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
www.EmeraldSoftwareInc.com
www.UMLBootCamp.com
-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Margaret C
Vining
Sent: Wednesday, June 21, 2000 1:42 AM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: [Open_Gaming]Theory of Network Externalities
How about a subject change?
Where can I get a copy of "The Theory of Network Externalities"? I've
tried searching for it on the web, but I can't seem to pinpoint a solid
reference. I keep finding links for general game theory sites. Is the
TNE a game theory? Has anyone on this list read it and understood it?
: ),
Maggie Vining
-------------
For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
-------------
For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
