Merger Control and Online Platforms: the Relevance of Network Effects

Digital platforms operate in multisided markets providing services through the internet to two or more distinct groups of users, between which there are indirect network effects. Direct networks effects are frequently present within each group. Therefore, online platforms usually present both direct network effects, between individual members of the same group, and indirect network effects, between members of distinct groups. Network effects may simultaneously reduce competition leading to a greater concentration and strengthening entry barriers, on the one hand, and put forward significant efficiencies on the other. This article examines some keys aspects related to the impact of network effects on the assessment of mergers in two-sided markets, taking account of the recent practice of the Commission.

The new alchemy: Online networking, data sharing and research activity distribution tools for scientists

There is an abundance of free online tools accessible to scientists and others that can be used for online networking, data sharing and measuring research impact. Despite this, few scientists know how these tools can be used or fail to take advantage of using them as an integrated pipeline to raise awareness of their research outputs. In this article, the authors describe their experiences with these tools and how they can make best use of them to make their scientific research generally more accessible, extending its reach beyond their own direct networks, and communicating their ideas to new audiences. These efforts have the potential to drive science by sparking new collaborations and interdisciplinary research projects that may lead to future publications, funding and commercial opportunities. The intent of this article is to: describe some of these freely accessible networking tools and affiliated products; demonstrate from our own experiences how they can be utilized effectively; and, inspire their adoption by new users for the benefit of science.