platform cooperativism
Platform cooperativism is a business model that combines the cooperative business structure with online platforms. In a platform cooperative, the platform is owned and governed by its users, workers, or other stakeholders, rather than by shareholders or investors. This means that the people who use the platform have a say in how it is run and how its profits are distributed.
Key Characteristics
- Democratic ownership and governance: Platform cooperatives are owned and controlled by their members, who have a say in how the platform is run. This can be done through a variety of mechanisms, such as electing representatives to a board of directors or voting on key decisions.
- Fair distribution of profits: Profits generated by the platform are distributed among the members, rather than being concentrated in the hands of a few shareholders. This can help to ensure that the platform benefits the people who use it, rather than just a small group of investors.
- Social and economic justice: Platform cooperatives often have a mission to promote social and economic justice. This can be done by providing fair wages and working conditions, supporting local communities, or promoting ethical and sustainable business practices.
Platform cooperativism is a relatively new movement, but it has the potential to disrupt the traditional online platform business model. By giving users and workers more control over the platforms they use, platform cooperatives can help to create a more fair and equitable digital economy.
Examples of Platform Cooperatives
- Stocksy United: A stock photo agency that is owned by its contributing photographers.
- Resonate: A music streaming platform that is owned by its users and artists.
- Fairmondo: An online marketplace for fair trade and sustainable products.
- Loconomics: A platform that connects users with local service providers who are committed to fair labor practices. (Unfortunately, Loconomics appears to be defunct and a working URL could not be located.)
Learn More
- Platform Co-op Development Kit: Resources and tools for developing platform cooperatives.
- The Platform Cooperativism Consortium: A network of individuals and organizations working to promote platform cooperativism.