The analysis of multisided platforms: results from a literature review

Purpose: Many businesses based on a “platform” model present some of the characteristics related to the phenomenon of servitization since they provide services without a direct ownership of physical products. The aim of the paper is to investigate the phenomenon of multisided platforms focusing on three peculiar aspects: 1) the conceptualization of the phenomenon; 2) the categorization of different types of multisided platforms; 3) the effects of digitization on multisided platforms. Design/Methodology/Approach: A literature review has been carried out in order to identify the main topics related to the phenomenon. We also provide some original contributions in order to bridge some of the gaps emerged from the analysis of the literature. Findings: Building on the literature, we develop a new definition of multisided platform in order to define clear boundaries that will guide our analysis upon this phenomenon. In addition, a typology is proposed aimed at categorizing the different functions that can be performed by a multisided platform with a list of the different agents that may be involved. Originality/Value: This paper tries to give a holistic view about the phenomenon of multisided platforms discussing the main issues addressed by the literature. A new definition and typology is provided.