Business model analysis as a new tool for policy evaluation: policies for digital content platforms

Purpose – This paper aims to explain and demonstrate how business model frameworks can be used to understand market developments and to assess the role of policy in (multi-sided) ICT markets. Design/methodology/approach – The research approach in the paper builds on integrated business model frameworks, which cover (much) more than the financial decisions of one single firm. A case study approach is implemented and tested in two studies on digital content platforms. Findings – Relevant policy instruments are identified and explored. To some extent, the findings are complementary or contradictory to the findings of existing studies on digital content platforms. The paper includes policy recommendations related to mobile and fixed content platforms. Research limitations/implications – Limitations of the study are due to the explorative and qualitative approach, and are to be complemented by other approaches. Policy makers and researchers can use the approach to analyse digital content platform developments and the impact of policy. Stakeholders in innovation processes can use the approach to address business models as well as policy issues for emerging platforms and services. Originality/value – The use of business model analysis in the context of policy analysis is a relatively new approach that is inspired by research findings on information communication technology (ICT) platforms and multi-sided networks, progress in business model studies, challenges in the policy mix for ICT, and the importance of case study methods for impact assessment.