This case study allows –
• Explore what is meant by open or closed architecture.
• Assess the advantages or disadvantages of having open/closed platform architecture for software platform customers, developers, and the platform itself.
In this case, we will focus on a main broad question:
• In software platform business, which strategy gives the companies the best competitive edge: adopting an open architecture strategy or a closed one?
• In this case, we will explore the issues when software platforms choose to be a self-sufficient company that tends to do things in-house to the fullest extent.
Instructions
• MacCormack, A., Dunn, B., & Kemerer, C.F. (2012). Research in motion: The mobile OS platform war. Harvard Business Publishing Education.
This case allows students to:
A. Explore what is meant by open or closed architecture.
B. Assess the advantages or disadvantages of having open/closed platform architecture for software platform customers, developers, and the platform itself.
In this case, we will focus on a main broad question:
1. In software platform business, which strategy gives the companies the best competitive edge: adopting an open architecture strategy or a closed one?
2. In this case, we will explore the issues when software platforms choose to be a self-sufficient company that tends to do things in-house to the fullest extent.
You must create a Case Study Report which should include the following:
1. Android-based phones and iPhones have successfully implemented features that have not traditionally been available on BlackBerries. Previous to that, however, RIM incorporated features into BlackBerry that were not previously available in any existing device (Telephone, pager, e-mail, PDA). Blackberry enveloped functionalities found in other devices (phones, pagers, PCs, and PDAs). What additional functionalities have iPhone and/or Android phones added that the Blackberry generally has not?
2. If RIM were to exit the market, how would consumer welfare be affected?
3. What would happen if one OS become dominant in the market?