Questions for FreeMarkets Case

  1. How does FreeMarkets Online create value for its customers?  How is it different from existing/traditional models? (please answer each in brief bullet points, trying to make as many different points as you can)
  2. Assess the company’s business model.  What are its strengths and weaknesses? (please list brief bullet points, making as many different points as you can)
  3. Which of the following alternatives should the company choose in order to go forward? (answer in one or two short paragraphs)
    1. Horizontal market expansion or vertical market dominance?
    2. Technology and user support subscription licensing?
    3. Networked purchasing information systems?
    4. Are there others?