Valuenetwork

Valuenetwork, commonly written as value network, is a concept in economics and business strategy that describes a system of interconnected actors engaged in the creation and exchange of value. It emphasizes the dynamic flows of products, services, information, and capital among participants rather than a linear sequence of steps.

Actors include firms, customers, suppliers, partners, regulators, and individuals. Each node contributes resources and capabilities, and value is co-created through interactions. Exchanges are mediated by platforms, contracts, standards, trust, and governance arrangements that determine access and incentives.

Value networks are analyzed by mapping actors, value exchanges, and dependencies to identify value-creating opportunities and bottlenecks. Common methods include value network analysis, stakeholder mapping, and social network analysis, which help designers understand leverage points and risks.

Applications span platform design, corporate strategy, open innovation, and policy development. Examples include digital ecosystems around app stores or cloud platforms, collaborative supplier networks, and data-sharing consortia that enable new services.

Challenges include the complexity of dynamic relationships, measurement of value attribution, and evolving governance as technology and markets change. Effective management requires clear incentives, adaptable governance, transparency, and attention to interdependencies within the network.