Platform Thinking: what’s beyond Uber?

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/platform-thinking-whats-beyond-uber

Introduction

### Course Review: Platform Thinking: What’s Beyond Uber? In our increasingly digital age, understanding the concept of platform thinking is essential for anyone seeking to navigate or leverage the myriad opportunities and challenges that arise from this transformative business model. The course “Platform Thinking: What’s Beyond Uber?” offered on Coursera does an excellent job dissecting the phenomenon of platforms and equipping learners with the knowledge they need to thrive in this new landscape. #### Overview of the Course The course promises a thorough dive into how platforms like Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Uber have redefined our interactions with information, goods, and services over the past two decades. The central theme revolves around understanding the "power of platforms," which refers to the unique ability of platforms to connect diverse stakeholders—users, providers, and businesses—through an interactive digital ecosystem. This innovative business model leverages technology to create value in ways that traditional linear business models cannot. #### Syllabus Breakdown **Week 1 - Introduction to the Course** This introductory week sets the stage for understanding the significance of platform thinking. It outlines the course's goals, provides an overview of what constitutes a platform, and highlights examples that students will explore in-depth. **Week 2 - Living the Platform Revolution** In this week, participants will engage with real-world case studies that exemplify the platform revolution. The focus will be on how platforms change consumer behavior, business operations, and market dynamics, making this segment particularly relevant for entrepreneurs and business leaders. **Week 3 - The History of Platforms** Understanding the historical context is crucial for appreciating the current state of platforms. This week will delve into the evolution of platform business models, tracing back their origins and milestones. This historical perspective helps learners grasp how and why certain platforms became dominant players in their respective fields. **Week 4 - Looking Forward** The final week encourages learners to think critically about the future of platforms. Participants will explore upcoming trends, technological advancements, and how to anticipate and adapt to the evolving landscape of platform-based business models. This forward-thinking module is particularly valuable in preparing for potential disruptions. #### Why You Should Enroll 1. **Comprehensive Understanding**: The structured approach of the course ensures that participants develop a holistic understanding of platforms—how they work, their historical context, and future implications. 2. **Real-World Application**: With case studies from leading platforms, learners will not only absorb theoretical knowledge but will also see its practical implications in today's economy. 3. **Future-Ready Skills**: As businesses increasingly adopt platform models, having insight into potential trends will be crucial for strategic decision-making in any industry. 4. **Flexible Learning**: Being an online course, it allows for flexible scheduling which can accommodate the busy lives of professionals, students, and lifelong learners alike. 5. **Community and Networking**: Coursera also provides a platform for engaging with peers, facilitating discussions that enrich the learning experience. #### Conclusion "Platform Thinking: What’s Beyond Uber?" is a must-take course for anyone interested in understanding the mechanics behind some of the most successful and influential businesses of our time. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business executive, or simply someone curious about the digital economy, this course offers valuable insights that can help you navigate and leverage the power of platforms. So, if you're ready to expand your knowledge and keep pace with a rapidly changing business environment, I highly recommend enrolling in this enlightening course on Coursera. Your journey into the world of platforms awaits!

Syllabus

Week 1 - Introduction to the course