Using Tangible Modeling to Create an e3 value Conceptual Model for Digital Ecosystems

The design of digital platforms and ecosystems is a challenging problem that involves technical, organizational, and business aspects. In this context, modeling languages for creating conceptualizations are crucial to support the design of comprehensive ecosystems. However, the creation of conceptual models requires the input and expertise of practitioners, who usually do not have the time to learn modeling languages. In this paper, we explore how to overcome this challenge by combining a tangible design approach for ecosystems, named the Tangible Ecosystem Design (TED) methodology, with a value modeling approach named the e 3 value methodology. We created and analyzed a TED Service Map and a corresponding e 3 value model to formulate lessons learned based on a comparison of models. Our results suggest that (1) the design process of a value model can benefit from tangible modeling and (2) model elements can be partially transferred from TED models to e 3 value models. The contribution of this paper provides lessons learned that can be used to derive e 3 value models from the TED approach and thereby lower entry barriers for conceptual models of complex ecosystems.