Internet business models: A contemporary reference framework
Ralf Wagner · 2013
The Internet is becoming more and more important for businesses. A practical reference framework of Internet business models can help companies to be successful in the Internet. Ideally such a reference framework is able to structure the Internet market into different segments and supports businesses in practically developing their business models. This paper shows that existing classifications of Internet business models have some shortcomings in both respects and offers a new classification which tries to avoid these shortcomings. The new reference framework defines five basic business models which are mutually exclusive and which can be combined with a practical schematic of business model elements. Thus, this reference framework can be easily applied in practice in analyzing and developing business models in today‘s Internet.