Revenue Model Research Articles

Scaling social impact. A framework for collaboration between social enterprises and for-profit enterprises

Purpose The purpose of this study is to contribute to a better understanding of innovative forms of collaboration between different types of enterprises – aimed at scaling social impact – and address the challenges and complexities inherent to these specific types of partnerships. The particular focus is on strategic collaboration between work-integration social enterprises (WISEs) and mainstream, or for-profit enterprises (FPEs) with the shared objective to create more and better employment opportunities for disadvantaged individuals in the labour market. Design/methodology/approach This study used a qualitative research design. The total sample consisted of 16 small- and medium-sized enterprises (both WISEs and FPEs), which were selected for their proven, business-to-business revenue model and their explicit ambition to create more inclusive jobs for disadvantaged individuals. Data collection and analysis took place between 2021 and 2023 and consisted of: semi-structured interviews with representatives of the participating enterprises to get a better understanding of the way in which current partnerships operate; and co-creative research methods to facilitate change processes – within and outside these partnerships – aimed at creating more social impact. Findings Most collaborations between WISEs and FPEs start purely transactional, with the exchange of products or services, but once they become more familiarised with each other, the realisation of (joint) social impact becomes more significant. The ambition to further coordinate and integrate operations is prominent, but the partnership process is not without challenges and requires time, commitment and trust. So far, only few collaborations can be considered truly transformational. Originality/value This study contributes to the discussion on strategic alliances and cross-sector collaborations by providing a conceptual framework and a practical instrument to shape strategic collaboration between social enterprises and FPEs that aim to create more social impact.

To Partner or Not to Partner? The Partnership Between Platforms and Data Brokers in Two-Sided Markets

Data have become a vital competitive asset for online advertising platforms, such as Facebook and Snapchat. These platforms often partner with data brokers to enhance targeting capabilities, which raises important consumer privacy concerns. This study develops a game-theoretic model to analyze the economic dynamics of partnerships between competing platforms and a data broker in a two-sided market. Our findings reveal that heightened consumer privacy concerns can encourage platforms to collaborate with data brokers rather than discourage them, as these concerns may strategically soften price competition on the advertiser side. However, when both platforms partner with a data broker, a prisoner’s dilemma may arise, even if the broker significantly improves targeting capabilities. From a policy perspective, such partnerships can harm consumer surplus in a purely ad-sponsored model, where users are not charged. Conversely, they may enhance consumer surplus in a mixed revenue model that combines advertising with subscriptions. These insights suggest that policymakers should consider regulations on platform-data broker partnerships to protect consumer interests, particularly regarding privacy protections that platforms may not prioritize under competitive pressures.

Exploring Alternative Revenue Models for Construction Consulting Firms in the Digital Era

The AEC industry, including construction consulting, is experiencing digitalization through technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), impacting firms’ business models. The traditional hourly-based model does not align with shortened project timelines driven by digitalization, design automation, and product-based approaches. This study uses a case study approach and explores and evaluates four selected alternative revenue models (freemium, subscription, out-come-based, and performance-based) for value creation using a digital tool developed by the consulting firm. The freemium model enhances market reach but requires a high conversion rate. The subscription model offers steady recurring revenue and supports client relationships. Out-come-based and performance-based models link payments to client outcomes and performance metrics, fostering efficiency and competitive advantages. The study identified multiple target markets for this tool and emphasized the importance of a portfolio revenue model to meet specific client needs in the digital era. Implementing alternative revenue models aids return on investments and avoids the digitalization paradox. Construction consulting firms must adeptly manage these models’ complexities to address diverse client needs and leverage digital transformation opportunities.

The Impact of Undignified Branding on Organizational Stability and Long-Term Success

Branding plays a crucial role in shaping an organization's image, fostering trust, and ensuring long-term growth. However, many organizations fail to adhere to dignified branding practices, leading to far-reaching consequences that extend beyond mere promotional failure. This paper explores how the inability to maintain dignified branding reflects deeper organizational problems, including lack of vision, instability, short-term focus, poor revenue models, ineffective team management, lack of expertise, and insufficient funds. Using case studies and theoretical insights, we examine the connection between poor branding practices and organizational failure. The paper aims to provide a framework for understanding the importance of strategic branding and offer recommendations for companies to avoid the pitfalls of undignified promotion. The research highlights that dignified branding is not only essential for consumer trust but also serves as a marker of organizational competence and long-term sustainability.

Analyzing the Public Health Impact of Adopting Telehealth after a Pandemic: A Business Model

Abstract: In response to the global shift in healthcare delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this study investigates the adoption of telehealth technologies and assesses their long-term sustainability within new public health paradigms. Telehealth, accelerated by the pandemic's demands, offers a unique perspective on evolving healthcare delivery methods that emphasize accessibility and efficiency. By employing a mixed-methods approach, which synthesizes quantitative data with qualitative insights from various stakeholders, this research evaluates how telehealth has enhanced the delivery of medical services, especially in remote and underserved communities. Despite challenges related to technological infrastructure and regulatory constraints, our analysis of revenue models and cost-benefit evaluations suggests that telehealth is economically feasible and possesses significant market potential. The findings advocate for robust policy support and technological investment to enhance global telehealth accessibility and implementation. Additionally, the study highlights the necessity of expanding educational training for healthcare professionals to effectively adapt to telehealth systems. These strategic measures are pivotal for promoting the widespread application and sustainable development of telehealth, positioning it as a cornerstone in the future landscape of global healthcare. Continued research is recommended to further refine telehealth models and develop comprehensive frameworks that address emerging healthcare challenges and disparities.

Deep Traces of Social Media: A Study on its Economic and Psyshological Effects

The rapid spread of social media platforms has deeply affected modern societies and led to significant changes in economic and psychological fields. This article aims to examine the deep traces of this phenomenon by focusing on the economic effects and psychological consequences of social media. It covers topics such as the economic effects of social media, its effects on consumer behavior, the transformation of advertising and commerce, as well as revenue models and innovations in the business world. In particular, the development of digital marketing strategies, brand awareness creation processes and their effects on businesses' customer relationship management were examined. In terms of psychological effects, the effects of social media on individuals, social connections, self-perception and psychological health are discussed. New psychological conditions such as loneliness, anxiety, social comparison and digital fatigue are among the problems that arise with the widespread use of social media. This article provides a critical review to understand the complex effects of social media on today's societies and lay the foundation for future research.

Hydrogen underground storage for grid electricity storage: An optimization study on techno-economic analysis

This study performs a techno-economic analysis of hydrogen underground storage systems for grid electricity storage, evaluating their economic viability at the plant scale using dynamic optimization. It explores the feasibility of various system configurations and revenue models in the context of volatile electricity prices and the necessity for multiple revenue streams. The hypothesis tested is that large-scale hydrogen storage, despite its low round-trip efficiency, can be economically viable with the right mix of revenue streams. This study uses scenario-based analysis to assess the impacts of different system configurations, including engaging in time-shifting arbitrage, ancillary service markets and blending hydrogen with natural gas. Results indicate potential annual net cash flows of up to $1.5 million from ancillary services integration and $5.2 million from natural gas blending, contingent on specific system sizes. The study concludes that hydrogen underground storage for grid electricity storage can be profitable, and emphasizes that proper system design and precise electricity price forecasting are crucial for optimizing system performance and economic returns. This research sets the stage for further investigations into the scalability of hydrogen storage systems and their broader implications for grid electricity storage and energy market dynamics.

A stackelberg game-based programming approach for industrial steam systems incorporating renewable energy considering demand response

Fossil fuels account for 37 % of industrial combustion, primarily used for steam production. Given the significant role of steam in industrial processes, industrial steam systems (ISS) offer a critical opportunity to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy by integrating renewable sources. Currently, ISS optimization focuses mainly on internal improvements, often neglecting stakeholder interactions and the inherent unpredictability of renewable energy sources. This paper introduces a novel bi-level programming approach based on Stackelberg game theory to address the balance between ISS and user interests. A new ISS model is proposed that integrates multiple renewable energy sources while accounting for their intermittency. Revenue models for energy servers (ES) and consumers (EC) are developed, and demand response mechanisms and real-time pricing are incorporated into the bi-level programming model. In the designed bi-level ISS (B-L-ISS) model, the upper level optimizes energy conversion equipment and pricing, while the lower level aims to minimize users' energy costs. The Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) conditions are used to reformulate the bi-level problem into a single-level programming problem with equilibrium constraints. Validation on a real coastal industrial steam system shows that the proposed method integrates renewable energy four times more effectively than traditional methods, reducing CO2 emissions by 15,790 tons annually, while balancing the interests of both the steam system and its users.

Distributed Optimization Strategy for New Energy Stations and Energy Storage Stations Considering Multiple Time Scales

The “dual carbon” goal has made it a mainstream trend for new energy stations (NESs) and energy storage stations (ESSs) to jointly participate in market regulation. This paper proposes a multiple time scale distributed optimization method for NESs and ESSs based on the alternate direction multiplier method (ADMM). By first considering the uncertainty of new energy output and the volatility of electricity market prices, a multi time scale revenue model is constructed for day-ahead, intraday, and real-time markets. Then, the objective function is built by maximizing the comprehensive market revenues and is simplified using the synergistic effect of NESs and ESSs. Next, the simplified objective function is solved by the ADMM, and the revenues are maximized while each energy meets the relevant constraints. Lastly, the 33-node network topology is used to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method. The simulation results show that after optimization, the output of NESs and ESSs can coordinate work in day-ahead, intraday, and real-time markets, while the abandonment power of wind and light is significantly improved.

Optimal scheduling strategies for electrochemical energy storage power stations in the electricity spot market

IntroductionThis paper constructs a revenue model for an independent electrochemical energy storage (EES) power station with the aim of analyzing its full life-cycle economic benefits under the electricity spot market.MethodsThe model integrates the marginal degradation cost (MDC), energy arbitrage, ancillary services, and annual operation and maintenance (O&M) costs to calculate the net profits of the EES power station. Using an iterative optimization approach, we determine the optimal MDC and analyze the economic end of life (EOL) for different types of EES power stations.ResultsBy examining real-world examples from the California energy market, we find that the full life-cycle benefits of an EES power station peak when its MDC is optimal, at $45/MWh-throughput. Under these conditions, the economic and physical EOL of commercial/industrial EES power station is 9 years, while the economic EOL of residential-grade EES power station is 8 years, which is shorter than their physical EOL of 9 years.DiscussionThe study further indicates that the economic life of an EES power station is influenced by multiple factors, and operators need to determine the optimal economic EOL to maximize revenue based on battery degradation characteristics, market conditions and operational strategy.

A novel secure privacy-preserving data sharing model with deep-based key generation on the blockchain network in the cloud

Cloud computing is currently emerging as a developing technology in which a Cloud Service Provider (CSP) is a third-party organization that provides effective storage of data and facilities to a large client base. Saving information in a cloud offers users the satisfaction of accessing it without the need for direct knowledge of the distribution and management of an infrastructure. The primary objective is to develop a novel, secure, and privacy-preserving data-sharing model that utilizes deep-based key generation on blockchain in the cloud. Data communication is done using multiple entities. The research aims to develop a collaborative data-sharing method in the cloud for the authentication scheme for cloud security on blockchain and smart contracts. Initialization, registration, key generation, authentication of data sharing, and validation are carried out here. The proposed data-sharing model involves a revenue distribution model that depends on Multiple Services (MS) models to improve multiple cloud services. The security parameters namely passwords, hashing functions, key interpolation, and encryption are used for preserving the Data privacy and here the SpinalNet is used for generating keys. Furthermore, the devised SpinalNet_Genkey obtained a value of 45.001 MB, 0.002, and 0.003 sec for memory usage, revenue, and computation cost.

EXPLORING INNOVATIONS IN SPORTS VENUE MANAGEMENT IN CHINA: BALANCING UTILIZATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

This paper explores innovative strategies for enhancing the utilization, financial sustainability, and community engagement of sports venues in China. As the industry faces challenges related to underutilization and economic viability, the study emphasizes the importance of multifunctional transformation and community-based operations. By reconfiguring sports venues to host a variety of events beyond traditional sports, operators can significantly increase utilization rates and revenue streams. The integration of digital and smart management technologies is identified as crucial for optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the paper highlights the need for diversified revenue models, including retail services, corporate sponsorships, and digital content monetization, combined with sustainable development practices such as energy efficiency and waste reduction. These strategies not only secure the long-term financial health of sports venues but also align with broader environmental and social goals. The study concludes that sports venues adopting these innovative approaches will be better positioned to thrive in a competitive and evolving market landscape. KEYWORDS：Sports Venue Management，Multifunctional Transformation，Community-Based Operations，Digital and Smart Technologies，Diversified Revenue Models，Sustainable Development

Optimal advertising structure in the presence of a platform owner’s entry

As consumer demand for mobile electronic items (e.g., mobile phones, tablets, or wearables) rises, advertising competition among electronics manufacturers becomes more intense. Moreover, platform owners that offer platforms for electronics manufacturers may use private labels to enter the manufacturers’ market, which further prompts the manufacturers to advertise in response to platform entry. We study how a platform owner’s entry affects advertising and price competition for a strong manufacturer and a weak manufacturer who are differentiated in production costs and advertising efficiency, and reveal the impacts of platform entry and two typical revenue models on the optimal advertising structures of supply chain members in the platform-based market. In the absence of entry, we discover that a relatively larger production cost advantage induces only the strong manufacturer to advertise while a relatively higher advertising efficiency advantage induces only the weak manufacturer to advertise in the wholesale model. In the bundling model, we show that the platform is always beneficial from the advertising of the manufacturer who can generate higher marginal revenue. With entry, our analysis reveals how the production cost of the platform and the differences in advertising efficiency between the manufacturers affect the optimal advertising structure. In particular, we find that as the production cost increases, the platform first prefers only the weak manufacturer to advertise and then both manufacturers to advertise. In practice, our findings have significant managerial implications for platform owners and electronics manufacturers engaged in advertising competition.

A blueprint for success? Exploring business models of additive manufacturing ventures

Additive Manufacturing (AM) was expected to be the next great technological revolution, yet the predicted market growth has fallen short by 40%. Using a proprietary, cross-sectional data set of 350 ventures in the AM field founded between 2000 and 2017, this study analyses AM companies from a business model perspective. Specifically, we explore which value delivery and value capture mechanisms are decisive for AM venture success, measured via their operational and ownership state. We reveal that targeting the B2B market and selling via partner networks significantly increases firm survival likelihood. Further, applying a recurring revenue model increases the likelihood of an IPO. Our main contributions are two-fold: first, our research complements the business model literature by evaluating value delivery and capture in the AM entrepreneurial space, revealing that customer segments, sales channels, and revenue models are key to venture success. Second, we provide business model design guidelines to entrepreneurs as well venture capitalists in the AM field.

Patient experience with hospital care following the Maryland global budget revenue model: A difference-in-difference analysis.

As a result of the success of Maryland's full risk capitated payment model experiment (Global Budget Revenue) in constraining healthcare costs, there is momentum for expanding the reach of such models. However, as these models are implemented, studies analyzing their long-term effects suggest unintended spillover effects that may ultimately influence patient experiences. The aim of this study was to determine whether implementation of the GBR was associated with changes in patient experience. Cross-sectional study using a difference-in-difference analysis to examine changes in patient experiences according to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) domains before and after implementation of the GBR model. Acute care hospitals from 2010-2016 with completed HCAHPS surveys were included. Hospitals identified for inclusion were then matched, based on county location, to area level characteristics using the Area Health Resource File. A total of 844 hospitals were included. Compared to hospitals in non-GBR states, hospitals in GBR states experienced significant declines in the following HCAHPS domains: "would definitely recommend the hospital to others" [Average treatment effect (ATT) = -1.19, 95% CI = -1.97, -0.41)] and 9-10 rating of the hospital (ATT = -0.93, 95% CI = -1.71, -0.15). Results also showed significant increases in the HCAHPS domains: "if patient's rooms and bathroom were always kept clean" (ATT = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.20, 2.00). There were no significant differences in changes for the other domains, including no improvements in: nursing communication, doctor communication, help from hospital staff, pain control, communication on medicines, discharge information, and quietness of the patient environment. These findings suggest there should be efforts made to ascertain and mitigate potential adverse effects of care transformation initiatives on patient experience. Patients are stakeholders and their inputs should be sought and incorporated in care transformation efforts to ensure that these models align with improved patient experiences.

Optimal Bidding Strategies for Wind-Thermal Power Generation Rights Trading: A Game-Theoretic Approach Integrating Carbon Trading and Green Certificate Trading

In response to the challenges of low wind power consumption and high pollution emissions from thermal power, the implementation of wind-thermal power generation rights trading is a proactive attempt to reduce wind power curtailment and promote its consumption. This study first regards the alternating bidding process between the two parties as a dynamic game, using the Rubinstein bargaining game model to determine the incremental profit allocation and optimal bidding for both parties in power generation rights trading. Secondly, an energy conservation and emission reduction model is constructed to analyze the benefits from the perspectives of standard coal consumption saving and the carbon emission reduction caused by power generation rights trading. Finally, a combined trading revenue model is established to analyze the final profit of both parties involved in the trading. The results show that the combined trading of wind-thermal power generation rights, incorporating carbon trading and green certificate trading, can effectively promote coal consumption savings in thermal power units and reduce the carbon emissions of the power industry. Moreover, it significantly increases the final profit for both parties, stimulating the enthusiasm of generators for participating in power generation rights trading, and ultimately promoting wind power consumption.

Revenue Model of Professional Tennis Players Signed under IMG Sports Brokerage Firm

In the context of the flourishing professional tennis leagues and the increasing prominence of commercial value, how to effectively cultivate and promote tennis players has become a focal point for the sports industry and the agency sector. Employing case analysis and literature review methods, this research delves into the training costs and income sources of tennis players, as well as the role of sports management companies in this process. The study initially points out that nurturing a top-tier tennis player requires substantial financial input. However, once the athlete achieves significant success, the returns are highly lucrative, primarily deriving from competition prize money, brand sponsorships, and revenues from commercial activities. Sports management companies, such as IMG, play a crucial role in the selection, training, and commercial promotion of athletes. Through their professional operations, they significantly enhance the commercial value of the athletes. The study provides a detailed analysis of how sports management companies systematically cultivate athletes and maximize their commercial value through diversified means. The findings indicate that the involvement of sports management companies is crucial for enhancing the commercial value and competitiveness of athletes. Addressing the current situation of training and agency management for Chinese tennis players, this paper proposes several recommendations, including improving the legal framework, promoting diversification in sports training, and implementing a "trinity" training mechanism, etc. These recommendations aim to promote the holistic development of Chinese tennis players and advance the standardization and professionalization of the tennis agency industry.

Strategies to Enhance Drivers Benefits and Establish an Intra-Corporate Social Business in Leading on-Demand Company (Ride Hailing)

Driven by social mission and mandate of government towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), one of the leading Indonesia ride-hailing company (INDOJEK) has launched and run a drivers’ welafe program named ProDrivers. The program is supposed to reducing drivers’ expenses. In this research, author attempts to crack the dilemma, specifically the ProDrivers program, to not only creating social impact, but also generating a sustainable social business that can provide unlimited resource to sustain INDOJEK social initiative to drivers. Author has used mixed-method in deploying this research, both qualitative and quantitative. Data collection was conducted to both drivers (as ProDrivers beneficiaries) and internal ProDrivers team (as strategist and executor of ProDrivers program), through survey, interview and focus group discussion (FGD). Using theories, such as 9 core elements of marketing and marketing mix (7Ps) which provide insight on how to improve ProDrivers program adoption, and internal marketing to understand to which extent ProDrivers program has delivered to drivers. Aside of it, author also uses some tools, such as New Wave of Marketing to facilitate marketing improvement. Revenue Model to find alternatives which ProDrivers can earn income and also Social Business Model Canvas to discover new business model

Business model innovations amidst adverse economic conditions: the role of CEO values

Purpose The current business environment is characterized by high levels of uncertainty that affect the global economic system and have the greatest impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With an elevated degree of perceived uncertainty, Chief executive officers' (CEOs) of SMEs find themselves in a situation where the old approaches to decision-making are irrelevant and the time to create new ones is limited. The purpose of this study is to examine whether appealing to personal values helps CEOs cope with a high level of perceived uncertainty and make decisions about the further development of the firm by undertaking business model innovations (BMI). Design/methodology/approach This study follows a multiple case study research design drawing on data collected from 10 Russian SMEs. Findings The authors show that CEOs’ communion values lead to innovations in the revenue model and value architecture dimensions of the business model. CEOs who are inclined to agentic values introduce innovations in the revenue model and value offering dimensions. Those executives who balance between the two types of values tend to also balance between different types of innovations in the elements of the business model. Originality/value The results indicate that personal values of CEOs play an important role in managerial processes and the strategic choice of a BMI type. Moreover, personal temporal focus orientation serves as a translation mechanism in the relationship between CEO values and BMI in SME settings.

Collaborative Pricing Strategy of Distribution Network and Electric Vehicle Aggregator Based on Integral System

Scaled EVs as a new type of load have great potential to participate in the standby market. However, the uncertainty of EV users' participation in aggregator regulation affects the optimal strategy for aggregators to participate in the market. Aiming at the uncertainty of users' willingness and the conflict of interest between aggregators and the distribution network, this paper proposes an optimal scheduling strategy of master-slave game for EV aggregators to improve users' willingness with a point system. First, the second-order cone optimal current model of the distribution network is established, and then the distribution network node marginal tariff is obtained. Second, the aggregator revenue model with energy storage is established, and the price-guided demand response model is proposed, while the aggregator point system is established to guide the charging behavior of EV users, so that the cooperative operation optimization problem between the distribution grid and the aggregator can be solved, and the economic interests among EV users, EV aggregators and distribution grid operators can be effectively balanced.