How platforms drive the evolution of governance mechanisms

Key Points

• This research aims to explore how varying initial governance mechanisms in platform firms drive the iterative evolution of governance through control portfolios.
• Four platform firms were analyzed as case studies.
• The study utilized mechanism design theory to evaluate governance structures.
• Control portfolio constructions were examined for their impact on governance mechanisms.
• Platform firms with different governance mechanisms effectively integrate decentralized and centralized elements.
• Iterative adjustments were observed as firms adapted by shaping their governance structures through control portfolios.

Abstract