Business models dynamics for start-ups and innovating e-businesses

As technology, market and regulation conditions change rapidly, e-business companies frequently have to reinvent their business models. This paper examines which external drivers are most decisive in changing business models during the phases of service development, roll-out and commercialisation. After a qualitative study, 45 longitudinal case descriptions were surveyed on the business model dynamics of start-up and established e-business companies. Technology and market forces turned out to be more decisive, while regulation plays only a minor role. While external drivers are moderately important over time for established companies, their impact on start-up business models is largest during service development and it fades over time.