Fundamentals

Consider this ● a lone carpenter, armed with a hammer and nails, can build a chair. But to construct a house, they require a team, specialized tools, and a network of suppliers. Small to medium-sized businesses, often likened to that lone carpenter, are increasingly finding themselves in a world demanding houses, not just chairs. Automation, the modern-day construction crew for SMBs, isn’t solely about individual tools; it’s about the ecosystem those tools inhabit and how that ecosystem amplifies their effectiveness.

Beyond the Tool ● Seeing the Forest

Many SMBs initially view automation as a collection of software applications designed to solve specific problems. Think of customer relationship management software to manage leads, email marketing platforms to reach customers, or accounting software to handle finances. Each tool, in isolation, offers a degree of efficiency.

However, the real power of automation for SMBs unlocks when these tools operate within a cohesive ecosystem. This ecosystem concept moves beyond the siloed approach, recognizing that business functions are interconnected and that automation should reflect this reality.

The Ecosystem Advantage ● Interconnection and Flow

An ecosystem in SMB automation Meaning ● SMB Automation: Streamlining SMB operations with technology to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and drive sustainable growth. refers to the network of interconnected software, platforms, and services that work together seamlessly to streamline business processes. It’s about data flowing smoothly between different applications, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors. Imagine your CRM system automatically updating your inventory management system when a sale is made, or your marketing automation platform triggering personalized email sequences based on customer interactions tracked in your customer service software. This interconnectedness creates a dynamic, responsive business operation, a stark contrast to the disjointed efforts of isolated tools.

Reduced Friction ● The Smoothness of Operations

Friction in business operations is akin to sand in the gears of a machine. Manual data entry, disparate systems that don’t communicate, and duplicated efforts all contribute to this friction, slowing down processes and wasting valuable time and resources. An ecosystem approach to automation significantly reduces this friction.

By integrating various business functions, an ecosystem eliminates data silos, automates workflows across departments, and provides a unified view of business operations. This operational smoothness translates directly to increased efficiency and productivity for SMBs, allowing them to achieve more with less effort.

Enhanced Visibility ● Seeing the Complete Picture

Operating with isolated automation tools Meaning ● Automation Tools, within the sphere of SMB growth, represent software solutions and digital instruments designed to streamline and automate repetitive business tasks, minimizing manual intervention. can be like navigating a ship with only a few portholes to see the surrounding ocean. You get glimpses, but lack a comprehensive view. An ecosystem, on the other hand, provides a panoramic perspective. By centralizing data and integrating different business functions, it offers SMBs a holistic view of their operations.

This enhanced visibility allows for better decision-making, as business owners can see the impact of actions in one area on other parts of the business. For instance, understanding how marketing campaigns directly translate into sales and customer retention becomes significantly easier within an integrated ecosystem.

Scalability and Growth ● Building for the Future

SMBs with aspirations for growth need to build systems that can scale alongside their ambitions. Isolated automation tools often become bottlenecks as businesses expand. They may not integrate well with new tools or handle increased data volumes efficiently. An ecosystem approach to automation is inherently more scalable.

Ecosystems are designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing SMBs to add new applications and functionalities as their needs evolve. This scalability ensures that automation investments remain valuable and supportive of growth, rather than becoming limitations.

Cost Efficiency ● Smart Spending, Better Returns

While the initial investment in an ecosystem might seem larger than purchasing individual point solutions, the long-term cost efficiency is often significantly greater. Ecosystems reduce the need for manual integration efforts, minimize data duplication, and streamline workflows, all of which translate to cost savings. Moreover, the increased efficiency and productivity gained from a well-integrated ecosystem can lead to higher revenue generation, further enhancing the return on investment. Smart SMBs understand that ecosystem value Meaning ● Ecosystem Value, within the context of SMB operations, quantifies the aggregate benefits an SMB derives from strategic relationships within its business environment. isn’t about the cheapest tools, but about the most effective and cost-efficient long-term solution.

Simplified Management ● Centralized Control, Reduced Headaches

Managing a collection of disparate automation tools can become a complex and time-consuming task. Each tool may have its own interface, login credentials, and support system, creating administrative overhead. An ecosystem approach simplifies management by providing a centralized platform for controlling and monitoring automation processes. This unified management reduces administrative burdens, frees up time for SMB owners and their teams to focus on core business activities, and minimizes the potential for errors and inefficiencies arising from fragmented systems.

Data-Driven Decisions ● Intelligence at Your Fingertips

In today’s business landscape, data is the new currency. SMBs that leverage data effectively gain a significant competitive advantage. An ecosystem approach to automation is inherently data-driven. By integrating various business functions and centralizing data, ecosystems provide SMBs with rich data insights.

This data can be used to understand customer behavior, optimize marketing campaigns, improve operational efficiency, and make informed strategic decisions. Data-driven decision-making, powered by an ecosystem, allows SMBs to operate with greater precision and effectiveness.

Competitive Advantage ● Staying Ahead of the Curve

In a competitive market, SMBs need every advantage they can get. Ecosystem value in automation provides a significant competitive edge. SMBs that embrace ecosystems can operate more efficiently, respond more quickly to market changes, and deliver better customer experiences.

This agility and responsiveness are crucial for staying ahead of the curve and competing effectively against larger organizations. Ecosystems level the playing field, empowering SMBs to achieve enterprise-level efficiency and sophistication without enterprise-level resources.

The Human Element ● Empowering Your Team

Automation is not about replacing humans; it’s about empowering them. An ecosystem approach to automation frees up SMB teams from repetitive, manual tasks, allowing them to focus on higher-value activities that require creativity, critical thinking, and human interaction. By streamlining workflows and providing better tools, ecosystems enhance employee productivity and job satisfaction. A happy and productive team is a valuable asset for any SMB, and ecosystem value contributes directly to building such a team.

Ecosystem value in SMB automation is not simply about adopting new technologies; it’s about strategically connecting those technologies to create a synergistic business environment.

Choosing Your Ecosystem ● A Strategic Imperative

Selecting the right ecosystem for your SMB is a strategic decision, not just a tactical one. It requires careful consideration of your business needs, goals, and budget. It’s important to evaluate different ecosystem options, considering factors such as integration capabilities, scalability, ease of use, and vendor support. Choosing an ecosystem that aligns with your long-term business strategy is crucial for maximizing its value and ensuring that your automation investments contribute to sustainable growth and success.

Embracing the Ecosystem Mindset ● A New Way of Thinking

Adopting an ecosystem approach to automation requires a shift in mindset. It’s about moving away from thinking in silos and embracing a holistic view of your business operations. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of different functions and understanding how automation can be leveraged to create a more efficient, responsive, and data-driven organization. This ecosystem mindset is essential for SMBs that want to thrive in the modern business landscape and unlock the full potential of automation.

The Journey, Not Just the Destination

Implementing an ecosystem for SMB automation is a journey, not a one-time event. It requires careful planning, phased implementation, and ongoing optimization. Start with identifying key areas where automation can have the biggest impact, and gradually expand your ecosystem as your business evolves.

The key is to approach it strategically, focusing on building a cohesive and integrated system that supports your long-term goals. The destination is a more efficient, scalable, and competitive SMB, but the journey itself is one of continuous improvement and adaptation.

Intermediate

The notion of ecosystem value in SMB automation moves beyond basic efficiency gains; it taps into a strategic realignment of operational architecture. Consider the intricate biological ecosystems ● each organism, while functioning independently, contributes to the overall health and resilience of the whole. Similarly, a well-constructed automation ecosystem Meaning ● An Automation Ecosystem, in the context of SMB growth, describes a network of interconnected software, hardware, and services designed to streamline business processes. within an SMB fosters a dynamic interplay between various business functions, creating a more robust and adaptable entity.

Synergistic Automation ● The Power of Interplay

While point solutions address immediate needs, they often operate in isolation, creating data silos and hindering cross-functional workflows. Ecosystem-based automation, conversely, emphasizes synergy. It’s about creating a network where each automated process enhances the effectiveness of others.

For instance, integrating marketing automation with sales CRM not only streamlines lead management but also provides richer data insights into customer journeys, allowing for more targeted and effective marketing strategies. This synergistic effect amplifies the overall impact of automation, creating value that surpasses the sum of individual tool capabilities.

Data Centrality ● The Lifeblood of the Ecosystem

Data in an ecosystem is not just information; it’s the circulatory system. A centralized data architecture is paramount for realizing ecosystem value. This involves moving away from fragmented data storage across disparate systems and establishing a unified data repository.

With data centrally accessible and consistently formatted, SMBs gain a single source of truth, enabling more accurate reporting, deeper analytics, and more effective cross-functional collaboration. Data centrality transforms raw information into actionable intelligence, driving informed decision-making across the organization.

API-Driven Integration ● The Connective Tissue

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) serve as the connective tissue of a robust automation ecosystem. APIs enable different software applications to communicate and exchange data seamlessly. For SMBs, prioritizing API-friendly platforms is crucial when building an ecosystem.

This ensures interoperability between chosen tools, allowing for flexible integration and customization. API-driven integration moves beyond rigid, pre-built integrations, empowering SMBs to create tailored ecosystems that precisely match their unique operational needs and evolving requirements.

Workflow Orchestration ● The Conductor of Automation

Workflow orchestration is the conductor of the automation orchestra. It involves designing and automating end-to-end business processes that span multiple systems and departments. Ecosystem value is significantly amplified through effective workflow orchestration.

For example, automating the entire customer onboarding process, from initial contact to account setup and training, requires orchestrating workflows across CRM, customer service, and potentially project management systems. This holistic approach to automation eliminates bottlenecks, reduces manual handoffs, and ensures a seamless customer experience.

Strategic Agility ● Adapting to Market Dynamics

In today’s volatile business environment, strategic agility Meaning ● Strategic Agility for SMBs: The dynamic ability to proactively adapt and thrive amidst change, leveraging automation for growth and competitive edge. is a critical differentiator. Ecosystem-based automation enhances SMB agility by providing the flexibility to adapt quickly to changing market conditions. A well-integrated ecosystem allows SMBs to rapidly adjust workflows, pivot marketing strategies, and respond effectively to emerging customer needs.

This adaptability stems from the interconnectedness of the ecosystem, enabling changes in one area to be quickly reflected and integrated across the entire operation. Strategic agility, fueled by ecosystem value, allows SMBs to not just survive but thrive in dynamic markets.

Vendor Ecosystems Vs. Best-Of-Breed ● A Strategic Choice

SMBs face a strategic choice when building an automation ecosystem ● opting for a single-vendor ecosystem or adopting a best-of-breed approach. Single-vendor ecosystems offer the advantage of pre-integrated tools and potentially simplified management. However, they may lack the specialized functionality of best-of-breed solutions. Best-of-breed ecosystems, conversely, allow SMBs to select the most powerful tools for each specific function but require more effort in integration.

The optimal choice depends on the SMB’s specific needs, technical capabilities, and long-term strategic priorities. Careful evaluation of both approaches is crucial for maximizing ecosystem value.

Measuring Ecosystem ROI ● Beyond Individual Tool Metrics

Measuring the return on investment Meaning ● Return on Investment (ROI) gauges the profitability of an investment, crucial for SMBs evaluating growth initiatives. (ROI) of an automation ecosystem requires moving beyond individual tool metrics. Traditional ROI calculations for point solutions may not capture the full value generated by an interconnected ecosystem. Ecosystem ROI should consider broader business outcomes, such as increased revenue growth, improved customer retention, reduced operational costs, and enhanced employee productivity.

Metrics like customer lifetime value, operational efficiency Meaning ● Maximizing SMB output with minimal, ethical input for sustainable growth and future readiness. gains across departments, and employee satisfaction scores become more relevant in assessing ecosystem value. A holistic approach to ROI measurement is essential for justifying ecosystem investments and demonstrating their strategic impact.

Change Management ● Navigating Ecosystem Adoption

Implementing an automation ecosystem is not just a technology project; it’s a significant organizational change. Effective change management is crucial for successful ecosystem adoption. This involves communicating the benefits of the ecosystem to employees, providing adequate training, and addressing potential resistance to change.

A phased implementation approach, starting with pilot projects and gradually expanding the ecosystem, can help mitigate risks and ensure smoother adoption. Prioritizing user buy-in and addressing concerns proactively are key to realizing the full potential of ecosystem value.

Security Considerations ● Protecting the Interconnected Landscape

An interconnected ecosystem also presents unique security considerations. With data flowing between multiple systems, securing the entire ecosystem becomes paramount. SMBs must adopt a holistic security approach, ensuring that all components of the ecosystem are adequately protected. This includes implementing robust access controls, data encryption, and regular security audits.

Vendor selection should also prioritize security, choosing partners with strong security protocols and compliance certifications. Proactive security measures are essential for mitigating risks and maintaining the integrity of the automation ecosystem.

Ecosystem Evolution ● Continuous Optimization and Adaptation

An automation ecosystem is not a static entity; it’s a living, evolving system. Continuous optimization and adaptation are crucial for maintaining its value over time. SMBs should regularly review their ecosystem, identify areas for improvement, and adapt to changing business needs and technological advancements.

This may involve adding new tools, refining workflows, or upgrading existing systems. A commitment to continuous ecosystem evolution ensures that automation investments remain aligned with strategic goals and continue to deliver maximum value.

Ecosystem value in SMB automation is about building a dynamic, interconnected operational architecture that fosters synergy, agility, and data-driven decision-making.

The Role of Cloud Computing ● Enabling Ecosystem Scalability

Cloud computing plays a pivotal role in enabling ecosystem scalability Meaning ● Ecosystem Scalability for SMBs is about strategically growing by leveraging external networks, but also about choosing the right ecosystem, even if niche. for SMB automation. Cloud-based platforms offer the flexibility and scalability required to build and manage complex ecosystems without significant upfront infrastructure investments. Cloud solutions also facilitate easier integration between different applications, as many cloud platforms are designed with API-first architectures.

The cloud empowers SMBs to access enterprise-grade automation capabilities and build scalable ecosystems that can grow alongside their businesses. Embracing cloud technologies is often a prerequisite for realizing the full potential of ecosystem value in SMB automation.

Low-Code/No-Code Platforms ● Democratizing Ecosystem Development

Low-code/no-code platforms are democratizing ecosystem development for SMBs. These platforms empower non-technical users to build and customize automation workflows and integrations without extensive coding expertise. This reduces reliance on specialized IT resources and allows SMBs to rapidly prototype and deploy automation solutions.

Low-code/no-code platforms make ecosystem building more accessible and affordable, enabling SMBs to leverage the power of interconnected automation even with limited technical capabilities. This democratization of automation is a significant driver of ecosystem value for smaller businesses.

Community and Support Ecosystems ● Beyond Software Alone

Ecosystem value extends beyond just software integrations; it also encompasses the community and support ecosystems surrounding automation platforms. Vendors with strong user communities and robust support networks provide valuable resources for SMBs adopting their platforms. These communities offer peer-to-peer learning, best practice sharing, and access to expert advice.

Reliable vendor support ensures timely assistance with technical issues and ongoing platform optimization. A strong community and support ecosystem enhances the overall value proposition of an automation platform and contributes to the success of SMB ecosystem initiatives.

The Future of SMB Automation ● Ecosystems as the Norm

The future of SMB automation is increasingly ecosystem-centric. As businesses become more complex and interconnected, the limitations of isolated point solutions become more apparent. Ecosystem-based automation is poised to become the norm, not the exception, for SMBs seeking to achieve operational efficiency, scalability, and competitive advantage.

SMBs that proactively embrace ecosystem thinking and strategically build integrated automation architectures will be best positioned to thrive in the evolving business landscape. Ecosystem value is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how SMBs will operate and compete in the years to come.

Advanced

The imperative of ecosystem value in SMB automation transcends mere operational optimization; it represents a fundamental restructuring of the SMB’s strategic core, aligning it with the complex, networked dynamics of contemporary markets. Drawing parallels from ecological theory, a thriving business ecosystem, much like a biodiverse natural ecosystem, exhibits resilience, adaptability, and emergent properties that far exceed the capabilities of its individual components. This perspective necessitates a deep dive into the theoretical underpinnings of business ecosystems Meaning ● Business Ecosystems are interconnected networks of organizations co-evolving to create collective value, crucial for SMB growth and resilience. and their practical application within the SMB context.

Ecosystem Theory and SMB Automation ● A Strategic Convergence

Business ecosystem theory, rooted in organizational ecology and complexity science, posits that firms operate within interconnected networks, where value creation is a collaborative, emergent process. In the context of SMB automation, this translates to recognizing that individual automation tools are not isolated solutions but rather nodes within a larger ecosystem. The strategic convergence lies in understanding that maximizing automation ROI requires optimizing the entire ecosystem, not just individual tool performance. This necessitates a shift from a reductionist view of automation (tool-centric) to a holistic, systems-based approach (ecosystem-centric), aligning SMB strategy with the principles of interconnectedness and emergent value creation as described by Iansiti and Levien in their seminal work on business ecosystems (Iansiti & Levien, 2004).

Network Effects and Ecosystem Value ● Amplifying SMB Reach

Network effects, a cornerstone of ecosystem economics, are particularly potent in amplifying ecosystem value for SMB automation. Metcalfe’s Law, often cited in network theory, suggests that the value of a network increases exponentially with the number of nodes. In SMB automation ecosystems, each integrated application or service acts as a node, and the value of the ecosystem grows disproportionately as more tools are interconnected and data flows more freely.

This network effect translates to increased efficiency, enhanced data insights, and expanded market reach for SMBs. By strategically building ecosystems that leverage network effects, SMBs can achieve disproportionate returns on their automation investments, mirroring the exponential growth observed in successful platform-based businesses (Eisenmann, Parker, & Van Alstyne, 2006).

Platformization and Ecosystem Orchestration ● SMBs as Ecosystem Players

Platformization, the shift towards platform-based business models, is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of SMB automation. SMBs are no longer passive consumers of software; they are increasingly becoming active participants in platform ecosystems. Ecosystem orchestration, a key capability in platform-based models, involves strategically managing the interactions and interdependencies within the ecosystem to maximize value for all participants.

For SMBs, this means not just adopting automation tools but actively orchestrating their automation ecosystem, selecting platforms that facilitate integration, fostering data sharing, and creating synergistic workflows. This proactive ecosystem orchestration enables SMBs to leverage the power of platforms to expand their capabilities, access new markets, and compete more effectively (Gawer & Cusumano, 2014).

Data Governance and Ecosystem Integrity ● Ensuring Trust and Value

Data governance becomes paramount in the context of interconnected automation ecosystems. As data flows across multiple systems and applications, ensuring data integrity, security, and compliance is critical for maintaining ecosystem value and fostering trust among stakeholders. Robust data governance Meaning ● Data Governance for SMBs strategically manages data to achieve business goals, foster innovation, and gain a competitive edge. frameworks are essential for SMBs to manage data access, control data quality, and comply with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).

Ecosystem value is directly linked to data integrity; compromised data undermines decision-making, erodes customer trust, and can lead to significant business risks. Therefore, a proactive and comprehensive approach to data governance is not just a compliance requirement but a strategic imperative for maximizing the long-term value of SMB automation ecosystems Meaning ● Automation Ecosystems, within the landscape of Small and Medium-sized Businesses, represents the interconnected suite of automation tools, platforms, and strategies strategically deployed to drive operational efficiency and scalable growth. (Weber, Otto, & Österle, 2009).

Dynamic Capabilities and Ecosystem Adaptability ● Building Resilient SMBs

Dynamic capabilities, the organizational processes that enable firms to sense, seize, and reconfigure resources to adapt to changing environments, are crucial for SMBs operating in dynamic markets. Ecosystem-based automation enhances SMB dynamic capabilities Meaning ● Organizational agility for SMBs to thrive in changing markets by sensing, seizing, and transforming effectively. by providing the flexibility and agility to respond quickly to market shifts, technological disruptions, and evolving customer needs. A well-designed ecosystem allows SMBs to rapidly reconfigure workflows, integrate new technologies, and pivot business strategies with greater ease and speed. This adaptability, fostered by ecosystem value, builds organizational resilience and enables SMBs to not just react to change but proactively shape their competitive landscape, aligning with Teece’s framework of dynamic capabilities as a source of competitive advantage Meaning ● SMB Competitive Advantage: Ecosystem-embedded, hyper-personalized value, sustained by strategic automation, ensuring resilience & impact. (Teece, Pisano, & Shuen, 1997).

Open Ecosystems Vs. Closed Ecosystems ● Strategic Trade-Offs for SMBs

SMBs face strategic trade-offs when choosing between open and closed automation ecosystems. Open ecosystems, characterized by interoperability and开放 APIs, offer greater flexibility and choice but may require more integration effort and potentially pose greater security challenges. Closed ecosystems, often offered by single vendors, provide tighter integration and potentially simplified management but may limit flexibility and vendor lock-in risks.

The optimal choice depends on the SMB’s specific strategic priorities, technical capabilities, and risk tolerance. A nuanced understanding of the trade-offs between openness and closure is crucial for SMBs to make informed decisions that maximize ecosystem value while mitigating potential downsides, considering the arguments for and against platform openness as discussed by Boudreau (2010).

Ecosystem Metrics and Value Measurement ● Beyond Financial ROI

Measuring ecosystem value in SMB automation requires a shift beyond traditional financial ROI metrics. While financial returns are important, ecosystem value encompasses broader strategic benefits, such as enhanced innovation capacity, improved customer experience, increased market agility, and strengthened network relationships. Ecosystem metrics should therefore include both quantitative and qualitative indicators, capturing not just financial performance but also operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, partner engagement, and ecosystem health. Developing a comprehensive ecosystem value measurement framework is essential for SMBs to track progress, optimize ecosystem performance, and demonstrate the strategic impact of their automation investments, moving beyond simplistic ROI calculations to more holistic value assessments as advocated by Kaplan and Norton’s Balanced Scorecard approach (Kaplan & Norton, 1996).

Ecosystem Governance and Collaborative Value Creation ● SMBs in Partnership Networks

Ecosystem governance, the mechanisms for coordinating and managing interactions within the ecosystem, is crucial for fostering collaborative value creation Meaning ● Collaborative Value Creation: SMBs strategically working together to achieve more, amplifying resources and driving growth through synergy. in SMB automation. Effective ecosystem governance Meaning ● Ecosystem Governance for SMBs is about establishing rules for collaboration within their business network to achieve shared growth and resilience. frameworks establish clear rules of engagement, define roles and responsibilities, and facilitate information sharing among ecosystem participants. For SMBs, this may involve establishing partnerships with technology vendors, service providers, and even other SMBs to create synergistic ecosystems. Collaborative value creation within well-governed ecosystems can unlock new opportunities for innovation, market expansion, and shared risk mitigation, emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance structures in business ecosystems as explored by Williamson’s transaction cost economics (Williamson, 1985).

Ethical Considerations in SMB Automation Ecosystems ● Responsible Innovation

As SMB automation ecosystems Meaning ● SMB Automation Ecosystems refer to the interconnected suite of technological solutions, platforms, and services designed to streamline and automate business processes within small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). become more sophisticated and data-driven, ethical considerations become increasingly important. Responsible innovation in ecosystem development requires SMBs to address potential ethical implications, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and workforce displacement. Ethical frameworks for AI and automation should be integrated into ecosystem design and governance, ensuring that automation technologies are used responsibly and ethically. Ecosystem value should not be pursued at the expense of ethical principles; rather, ethical considerations should be viewed as integral to long-term ecosystem sustainability and societal value creation, aligning with the principles of value-sensitive design in technology development (Friedman, Kahn Jr, & Borning, 2008).

The Future of Ecosystem Value ● Emergent Ecosystems and Adaptive SMBs

The future of ecosystem value in SMB automation points towards increasingly emergent and adaptive ecosystems. As technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain mature, SMB automation ecosystems will become more dynamic, self-organizing, and capable of autonomous optimization. SMBs that embrace this future will need to develop adaptive organizational structures and cultivate a culture of continuous learning and experimentation.

Ecosystem value in the future will be defined not just by efficiency gains Meaning ● Efficiency Gains, within the context of Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs), represent the quantifiable improvements in operational productivity and resource utilization realized through strategic initiatives such as automation and process optimization. but by the ability to leverage emergent ecosystem properties to drive innovation, create new business models, and adapt to unforeseen challenges. This necessitates a forward-looking strategic approach, preparing SMBs to thrive in a world of increasingly complex and interconnected business ecosystems, embracing the principles of complexity and emergence in organizational strategy as outlined by Stacey (2007).

References

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• Eisenmann, T., Parker, G., & Van Alstyne, M. W. (2006). Platforms, networks, and the layered reality. MIS Quarterly, 30(Special Issue), 19-34.
• Friedman, B., Kahn Jr, P. H., & Borning, A. (2008). Value sensitive design and information systems. In Early engagement and new technologies ● Opening up the laboratory (pp. 55-95). Springer, Dordrecht.
• Gawer, A., & Cusumano, M. A. (2014). Industry platforms and ecosystem innovation. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 31(3), 417-433.
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• Weber, I., Otto, B., & Österle, H. (2009). Data governance ● Definition, benefits, and implementation strategies. Electronic Markets, 19(2-3), 253-263.
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