A shift is occurring in platform business models, moving from a focus on facilitating transactions to learning relationships. This shift is driven by the increasing importance of scalable learning over scalable efficiency in a rapidly changing world. Scalable learning involves creating an environment that helps all participants learn faster as more participants join.
The transaction-based model of platforms, such as Uber and Airbnb, focuses on connecting buyers and sellers. While these platforms have been successful, they are limited by their focus on short-term transactions and fail to build long-term relationships.
The learning-based model of platforms, on the other hand, is designed to build and strengthen relationships among participants. These platforms, such as Amazon’s AWS and Apple’s App Store, focus on providing resources and tools that enable participants to learn and improve over time.
The shift to learning-based platforms is not without challenges. It requires a different mindset, focusing on long-term value creation rather than short-term transactions. It also requires a different approach to governance, with platforms needing to earn the trust of participants and ensure that they benefit from their contributions.
Despite these challenges, the shift to learning-based platforms offers significant opportunities. It enables platforms to create more value for participants and become more central to their lives. It also allows platforms to evolve and adapt more quickly in a rapidly changing world.
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