April 16, 2025
Harvard Business Review recently published an article co-authored by Chrysanthos Dellarocas, Shipley Professor in Information Systems and Gordon Burtch, Allen and Kelli Professor in Information Systems, discussing how digital platforms rely on volunteers for content creation and community management, but monetization efforts can strain these relationships.
Examples like Reddit’s 2023 API pricing backlash and the Huffington Post contributor strikes after AOL’s acquisition illustrate the risks. This article draws on research to explore how platforms can commercialize without alienating the volunteer communities that support them.
Ultimately, sustaining platform growth requires balancing business goals with genuine recognition and support for the volunteers who help make that growth possible.
