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description: Identify, classify, and strengthen network effects in a product or platform
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# Network Effects

Analyze whether your product benefits from network effects and design strategies to strengthen them.

## Steps

1. Classify the type: **direct** (same-side: more users = more value), **indirect** (cross-side: more supply = more demand), or **data** (more usage = smarter product)
2. Map the **value graph** -- how does each new user increase value for existing users?
3. Identify the **critical mass** threshold needed to trigger self-sustaining growth
4. Assess **defensibility** -- how hard is it for users to leave once the network is established?
5. Design features that **amplify** the network effect (invites, shared content, interoperability)
6. Watch for **negative network effects** (spam, noise, congestion) and plan mitigations

## Output Format

- **Network effect type:** [Direct / Indirect / Data]
- **Value mechanism:** [How each node adds value]
- **Critical mass estimate:** [Number/threshold]
- **Current status:** [Pre-critical / At critical / Post-critical]
- **Amplifiers:** [Features to strengthen the effect]
- **Risks:** [Negative effects and mitigations]