So where is MS's Facebook? Where is MS's Google Voice? Where is MS's Yelp? Where is MS's Netflix? Where is MS's JumboTron API? Where is MS's line of televisions? Where is even an MS computer?
And noting the network effect doesn't mean that companies won't user other means to stop their competition. For example, try to get Lebron James to wear shoes you make. Not going to happen. I don't care how comfortable your shoes are. Also, try getting your shoes into FootLocker. Also, not so easy, and Nike won't lubricate the process for you either.
Try getting Starbucks to open up a kiosk in your building with a Seattle's Best right next to it. Starbucks has enough influence that they can use other means, besides network effect, to push out competition.
Network effects are a beautiful thing to leverage. Actually I think MS is in trouble, because it has very little of it. Compared to Facebook or Apple. Google is trying to strengthen their network effect.
But again, there's a fundamental difference between trying to create and leverage network effects. And what you're saying, which is to simply disrupt any other company.
http://www.thespoke.net/
"Microsoft's digital lifestyle club for students from around the world, with message boards, hubs, blogs and 10 MB of upload space for members"
The problem for them is that their network is losing relevance fast. The value of desktop software lock-in is in sight, server software is coming next.
The Spoke predates Facebook I believe. At least the site as we know it today. The Spoke existed far before people believed there was a ton of revenue to be made on those sorts of sites... otherwise sites like MiGente and BlackPlanet would have probably been more richly funded.
And noting the network effect doesn't mean that companies won't user other means to stop their competition. For example, try to get Lebron James to wear shoes you make. Not going to happen. I don't care how comfortable your shoes are. Also, try getting your shoes into FootLocker. Also, not so easy, and Nike won't lubricate the process for you either.
Try getting Starbucks to open up a kiosk in your building with a Seattle's Best right next to it. Starbucks has enough influence that they can use other means, besides network effect, to push out competition.
Network effects are a beautiful thing to leverage. Actually I think MS is in trouble, because it has very little of it. Compared to Facebook or Apple. Google is trying to strengthen their network effect.
But again, there's a fundamental difference between trying to create and leverage network effects. And what you're saying, which is to simply disrupt any other company.