Network Properties Canvas

#The problem this canvas solves

Not all network effects are created equal. Same-side effects, cross-side effects, data network effects, and marketplace network effects work differently and create different levels of defensibility. Teams often assume they have network effects when they don't, or don't leverage the ones they have. The Network Properties Canvas provides a structured analysis of your network's topology, density, clustering, and which types of network effects are possible.

#When to use it

Use the Network Properties Canvas to understand and design the network effects in your platform. Strong network effects create defensibility and increasing returns - they're often the key to platform business success.

#The canvas

The canvas in the updated Boundaryless brand (full resolution — click to zoom). A print-ready PDF and editable SVG are also available on request.

#Connections with other canvases

#Feeds into

• Flywheel Sketching Canvas — Network effects power flywheels
• Platform Design Canvas — Network properties inform design

#Informed by

• Ecosystem Canvas — Ecosystem structure determines network topology

#Complements

• Learning Engine Canvas — Learning and network effects compound

#Used in techniques

• Designing Network Effects and Flywheels

#Used in pipelines

• Designing the Platform Experience

#Related reading

• Launching Platforms: Growth Hacking & Network Effects — Deep dive on types of network effects and how to leverage them

#Resources

• Guide reference: PDT Growth & Product Guide - Network Properties chapter
• License: Creative Commons Attribution - Share Alike 4.0 International
• Version: 2.2

---

Part of Platform Design Toolkit · v2.2