Catalyst Code

In this summary, you will learn

• What catalysts are
• What catalysts aren’t
• How to follow six strategic steps to success as a catalyst company

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Why you should read Catalyst Code

Everyone’s keen to know the secrets of successful, fast-growing companies. In response, David S. Evans and Richard Schmalensee look at new ways to bring buyers and sellers together. Companies that act as catalysts combine opportunism, customer service and savvy pricing to create a profitable, flexible business model by assembling audiences, cutting costs or connecting other companies. The authors offer plenty of concrete examples of these strategic combinations – from Diners Club and American Express to Microsoft and Google. Perhaps the one weak point in their theory is that the borders between catalysts and noncatalysts are a bit fuzzy. (A supermarket isn’t a catalyst, but a mall is.) getAbstract recommends this interesting, strategic analysis to managers seeking a thought-provoking look at how to create new, enticing and profitable links.

About the Authors

David S. Evans is vice chairman of an international consulting and expert resource company, and a visiting professor at University College in London. Richard Schmalensee is dean of MIT’s Sloan School of Management.