Digital Platforms

Platform Governance for Established Companies

Maximilian Schreieck, Jan Ondrus, Manuel Wiesche, and Helmut Krcmar


Abstract
This article explores platform governance in established companies that face unique challenges when adopting platform strategies because of their complex organizational structures, diverse product ranges, legacy systems, and existing networks of partners. It analyzes four established companies’ governance strategies and proposes a multi-layered governance model that addresses the varying needs of internal business units, core partners, and third-party developers. This model highlights the importance of custom governance strategies tailored to specific ecosystem actors and their relationships. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of platform governance in established companies and present practical recommendations for managers embarking on digital transformation.

California Management Review

Published at Berkeley Haas for more than sixty years, California Management Review seeks to share knowledge that challenges convention and shows a better way of doing business.

Learn more