Publications
Publications
- October 2011
- HBS Case Collection
Jack Hughes, Founder and Chairman of TopCoder, In-class comments 4/8/11
By: David A. Garvin
Abstract
TopCoder's crowdsourcing-based business model, in which software is developed through online tournaments, is presented. The case highlights how TopCoder has created a unique two-sided innovation platform consisting of a global community of over 225,000 developers who compete to write software modules for its over 40 clients. Provides details of a unique inovation platform where complex software is developed through ongoing online competitions. By outlining the company's evolution, the challenges of building a community and refining a web-based competition platform are illustrated. Experiences and perspectives from TopCoder community members and clients help show what it means to work from within or In cooperation with an online community. In the case, the use of distributed innovation and its potential merits as a corporate problem solving mechanism is discussed. issues related to TopCoder's scalability, profitability and growth are also explored.
Keywords
Business Model; Growth and Development; Technological Innovation; Problems and Challenges; Motivation and Incentives; Competition; Online Technology; Information Technology Industry
Citation
Garvin, David A. "Jack Hughes, Founder and Chairman of TopCoder, In-class comments 4/8/11." Harvard Business School Video Supplement 312-709, October 2011.