Leveraging first-mover advantages in internet-based consumer services

The role of first movers in various Internet-based consumer service markets in developing a market leadership through strategic management concepts is discussed. The value proposition of Google to meet the consumer surfing needs and of Yahoo focused on personal portal model resulted in services such as Yahoo! groups and music and Google scholar and Earth respectively. The strategic pattern and dependability of Amazon.com, with a dominant share for Internet retailing with 38% share, offers the ability to search through and choose from various consumer options. First-movers also have an advantage as a well known brand in on-line auctions category, while e-auction companies can expect to gain pioneering advantages by identifying consumer perception of service quality.