When the operations of a business rely on the contributions of thousands of volunteers, as in the case of Wikipedia and the Open Directory project, can we apply the same model as we would to an more 'traditional' business? In the case of these companies, the process of 'making stuff' is carried out by the same body of individuals as the one which consumes that 'stuff'. The value proposition offered to users is the chance to share rather than to buy content, or to contribute their time because, in Benkler's words, it "gives me a certain sense of meaning."
Benkler raises an important issue in his talk; we need to consider whether open-source organisations such as those he discusses can be considered under through the lens of traditional business models.
Benkler raises an important issue in his talk; we need to consider whether open-source organisations such as those he discusses can be considered under through the lens of traditional business models.
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