Digital Ecosystems 2600-MSdz2DEen
The course examines the development, characteristics and regulatory challenges of digital ecosystems. Based on an analysis of particular examples of digital ecosystems, the course will provide insights into organisational, economic and legal aspects of ecosystems’ functioning.
The course will focus on the analysis of real-world case studies. Students will explore the opportunities and challenges associated with ecosystems’ functioning in the economy. We will integrate the organisational and regulatory approaches to depict the current trends in the development of digital ecosystems.
The following digital ecosystems will be analysed: Apple’s iOS ecosystem, Google’s search and ad ecosystems, Meta’s ad ecosystem, Booking’s travel ecosystem, Microsoft’s software ecosystem, Amazon’s ecosystem.
Course coordinators
Course dedicated to a programme
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
K_W05 – The student can define and critically assess the concept of digital ecosystems and its main dimensions.
K_W06 – The student can identify and evaluate the sources and driving factors of digital ecosystems in the digital economy and society.
Skills
K_U01 – The student can analyze and compare the impacts and challenges of digital ecosystems for different stakeholders and interest groups.
K_U02 – The student can understand and apply the main legal and regulatory approaches and instruments used to govern digital ecosystems.
K_U03 – The student can develop and propose solutions and recommendations for a sustainable and effective approach to digital ecosystem development.
K_U07 – The student can use specialized terminology related to digital ecosystems in a foreign language in the context of practical applications.
Social Competences
K_K01 – The student is ready to critically assess phenomena related to the development and functioning of digital ecosystems.
K_K07 – The student is ready to responsibly and reflectively evaluate the social, economic, and regulatory consequences of digital ecosystem development.
Assessment criteria
Course credit will consist of:
- attendance in class and active participation (50%)
- case study analysis of a chosen digital ecosystem (50%).
Graded assessment
Course credit will consist of:
- attendance in class and active participation (50%)
- case study analysis of a chosen digital ecosystem (50%).
Bibliography
Mandatory readings:
1. Valdez-De-Leon, O. (2019). How to develop a digital ecosystem: A practical framework. Technology Innovation Management Review, 9(8).
2. Ivarsson, F., & Svahn, F. (2020). Becoming a digital ecosystem orchestrator-The Sydved Case.
3. Subramaniam, M. Digital ecosystems and their implications for competitive strategy. J Org Design 9, 12 (2020)
4. Official press releases on enforcement actions taken against digital ecosystems (will be provided).
Additional readings:
5. Adner R. Sharing value for ecosystem success. MIT Sloan Management Review. 2022;63(2):85-90.
6. Subramaniam, M., Iyer, B., & Venkatraman, V. (2019). Competing in digital ecosystems. Business Horizons, 62(1), 83-94.
Bibliography can be updated during the course.