Why global value chains should analyse multi-sided platforms?

Abstract

Global Value Chains (GVCs) theory is being used to study a variety of industries, from commodities to information technology, with considerable contributions to the understanding of industry dynamics and governance, value creation and capture, and geographic distribution. Multi-Sided Platforms (MSPs) is a concept has its roots on strategy field, and has been developed under related and complementary concepts such as Two-Sided Markets, Two-Sided Network, Two-Sided Platforms, and Platform-Mediated Networks. GVCs and MSPs share a common ground when it comes to internet-based value chains and business in the digital industry. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that the combination of both approaches allows for an enhanced understanding of digital goods and services production