Bandwagon Effects in High Technology Industries

Witty, literate, and right on target, Rohlfs captures the economic and business principles of network ('bandwagon') effects in today's hottest sector of the economy. Network effects is the word du jour in the current business jargon, and many apply it where it doesn't work. Rohlfs is careful and convincing in laying out the theory, and absolutely on target in the many carefully researched examples he uses. The book is fun to read as well as incredibly useful in sorting out the wheat from the chaff. Rohlfs is the true pioneer of bandwagon/network effects, having discovered the concept almost thirty years ago. With this book, Rohlfs shows he is still the master, not only of the underlying theory but also of its practical application to a myriad of business situations. If you need one book to read on bandwagon/network effects, this has to be your choice.

Gerry Faulhaber, Professor of Business and Public Policy, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

This book is a gem; Rohlf's writing is straightforward and very readable. The book is timely because its subject matter is at the heart of e-commerce.

Edward E. Zajac, Department of Economics, University of Arizona

A witty and accessible introduction to bandwagon and network effects by one of the true pioneers in the field. The book surveys theory and practice to draw out practical lessons of interest to business and government decision makers alike.

Michael Katz, Edward J. and Mollie Arnold Professor of Business Administration, Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley

Jeffrey Rohlfs was a major early contributor to the theory of network effects, and here he combines sensible theory with thoughtful case studies. Everyone interested in innovation and competition will find value in this book.

Joseph Farrell, Department of Economics, University of California, Berkeley, former Deputy Assistant Attorney General, United States Department of Justice