Social-Networking Sites Open Up
from Business Week
Until now. Social-networking sites are realizing that if they want to grow their user base—and build a sustainable business model—they need to attract third-party developers. "Social networks have reached a point of maturity, and opening APIs will help them grow," explains Adam Trachtenberg, a senior manager for eBay (EBAY). The auction powerhouse made its software available so others could easily link to its site. Today, some 40% of its listings are actually posted on other Web sites, providing eBay with billions in revenue from fees.
