A Literature Review on Platforms by Jonas Weber

Jonas Weber, research associate in the Media and Communication Management Group, published a literature review of 474 media management publications in the International Journal on Media Management. In his article, he traces how the term “Platform” is defined and operationalized within the field. 

The key findings include:

• Distinct conceptualizations: platform as base, two-sided market, infrastructure, channel, and internet/tech company. 
• Despite the varied ways in which the concept has been theorized, all platforms share three fundamental activities: enabling, coordinating, and governing. 
• Research in media management clusters into three streams: economic stream, critical stream and distribution stream, each approaching platforms from a distinct angles.

Beyond mapping the field, the review uncovers key design attributes for describing and comparing platforms and charts directions for future research across the three streams.

Finally, he contends that the media management field would benefit from clearer definitions and conceptual clarity in its use of the term.

Link to the Open Access Publication: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14241277.2026.2685167