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  • January 2018 (Revised February 2018)
  • Technical Note
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Making Markets

By: Thomas R. Eisenmann and Scott Duke Kominers
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:25
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Abstract

Explains how to identify and capitalize on marketplace design opportunities. Defines markets and marketplaces and describes the basic functions of each. Discusses attributes (e.g., heterogeneity of participants' preferences and asymmetry in available information) that determine whether and how marketplaces create value. Explains common causes of market failure and presents a framework for designing marketplaces in response. Discusses tactics for building trust and liquidity when launching new marketplaces as well as challenges encountered as marketplaces mature (e.g., congestion and disintermediation).

Keywords

Marketplaces; Two-Sided Markets; Entrepreneurship; Market Design; Digital Platforms; Marketplace Matching; Market Participation; Market Transactions; Market Entry and Exit; Digital Platforms; Auctions

Citation

Eisenmann, Thomas R., and Scott Duke Kominers. "Making Markets." Harvard Business School Technical Note 818-096, January 2018. (Revised February 2018.)
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About The Authors

Thomas R. Eisenmann

Entrepreneurial Management
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Scott Duke Kominers

Entrepreneurial Management
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Related Work

    • January 2018 (Revised February 2018)
    • Faculty Research

    Making Markets

    By: Thomas R. Eisenmann and Scott Duke Kominers
Related Work
  • Making Markets By: Thomas R. Eisenmann and Scott Duke Kominers
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