An important aspect of understanding your business ecosystem is knowing your position within it (positioning), whether you hold a higher or lower (subordinate) role, and whether your offerings are substitutes or complements. Netflix started as a DVD rental service. With the rise of online streaming, Netflix saw it as a replacement for DVD rentals. Kimbap and Ramen are complementary goods, but Ramen and Udon are substitutes. This is why, even when setting up a snack bar, paying attention to the menu is crucial. Complementary goods increase sales, while substitutes are more likely to lead to no change or even a decline in sales. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Netflix initially started as a DVD rental service and grew, but it soon encountered a crisis with video streaming technology. Nevertheless, it wasn’t feasible to abruptly abandon the existing business and transition to a digital distribution model, highlighting the significant conflict involved! Video streaming technology is not a complementary service to DVD rental; rather, it serves as an alternative. When expanding or improving a business, it’s crucial to clearly understand the defining attributes of the target product or service. Burgers and French fries complement each other, while burgers and chicken sandwiches are substitutes. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”