Creating a Method for Modeling Analyzing Coopetition in Software Ecosystems

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Coopetition in software ecosystems is a commonly encoun- tered phenomenon that does not have standard methods for modeling. The goal of this research is to increase the body of knowledge in the modeling field applicable to Coopetition in SECO. METHODS: First, the literature study of the existing methods is per- formed. Next, best suiting modeling techniques for describing the coopetition in SECO are chosen. Afterwards, the guidelines for each modeling technique are compiled. Finally, the models are created following the guidelines and the guidelines are evaluated based on the modeling experience. RESULTS: The results are a set of models: i*, game trees, and e3value models. i* model serves the purpose of giving an overview of the whole situ- ation within the SECO. Game trees model allows to create a set of scenarios, based on the i* model, and then evaluate each scenario from the perspective of utility yield for each actor. e3value model allows to see what values are be- ing exchanged between the actors. Furthermore, a number of evaluations of the guidelines are given with the purpose of improving the modeling process. CONCLUSIONS: Compiled guidelines are sufficient for the creation of the as-is models. The models used have high easiness of use, require little time to learn and can give an overview of the coopetition within SECO. With larger models, readability becomes lower, however a number of recommenda- tions are given on how to overcome this problem. Furthermore, this research makes a step towards the further formalization of the models to provide more accurate coopetition overview.