A Classification of Business Models Based on Container Theory

Abstract

Firstly, this paper reviewed several classifications of business models in the contemporary academia. Secondly, it proposes a new classification based on the container theory—according to the capacity and the tightness, business models can be divided into four fundamental types: dominant business model, certain market-occupied business model, worrying business model and gap business model. Finally, the essay describes the connotations and main features of the four business models through some specific cases.