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  • June 2023
  • Exercise

Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise Instructions

By: Feng Zhu and Marco Iansiti
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:4
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Abstract

Many markets are organized around platforms that connect consumers with complimentary applications and services. These platforms are two-sided because both sides - consumers and those providing applications or services - need access to the same platform to interact. A smartphone operating system such as iOS or Android, for example, serves as a platform that connects smartphone users with independent application developers who need access to the operating system's application programming interface to develop their apps. Other examples of platforms include video game consoles, e-commerce marketplaces, ride-sharing applications, credit cards, and social networking sites.

This simulation gives students an opportunity to develop their skills in managing a platform firm. Working in teams, students act as owners of one of two competing platforms. Taking into account such considerations as network effects, platform quality, and multi-homing, each team is responsible for designing their platform's strategies for pricing and R&D.

Keywords

Platform Strategies; Technology Platform; Customer Acquisition; Network Effects; Digital Platforms; Marketplace Matching; Strategy

Citation

Zhu, Feng, and Marco Iansiti. "Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise Instructions." Harvard Business School Exercise 623-092, June 2023.
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About The Authors

Feng Zhu

Technology and Operations Management
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Marco Iansiti

Technology and Operations Management
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Related Work

    • June 2023 (Revised October 2024)
    • Faculty Research

    Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise Teaching Note

    By: Feng Zhu
    • June 2023
    • Faculty Research

    Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise

    By: Feng Zhu and Marco Iansiti
Related Work
  • Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise Teaching Note By: Feng Zhu
  • Clash of Two Giants Simulation Exercise By: Feng Zhu and Marco Iansiti
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