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  • December 2011 (Revised October 2014)
  • Background Note
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Business Model Analysis for Entrepreneurs

By: Thomas Eisenmann
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:25
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Abstract

This note defines a business model and its major elements: a customer value proposition, a technology and operations management plan, a go-to-market plan, and a profit formula. For each element, the note lists questions that an entrepreneur must address when evaluating an early-stage opportunity. The note explores in greater depth several business model issues that are especially relevant to entrepreneurial ventures, including the impact of network effects and customer switching costs; conditions when a startup should consider vertical integration; the nature of first and late mover advantage; and conditions that favor viral marketing. The note concludes with practical guidelines for early-stage entrepreneurs on how to conduct business model analysis.

Keywords

Business Model

Citation

Eisenmann, Thomas. "Business Model Analysis for Entrepreneurs." Harvard Business School Background Note 812-096, December 2011. (Revised October 2014.) (request a courtesy copy.)
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About The Author

Thomas R. Eisenmann

Entrepreneurial Management
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Related Work

    • December 2011 (Revised October 2014)
    • Faculty Research

    Business Model Analysis for Entrepreneurs

    By: Thomas Eisenmann
Related Work
  • Business Model Analysis for Entrepreneurs By: Thomas Eisenmann
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