What are the advantages and disadvantages of being first mover in an industry?

Answer 1

First-mover advantage or FMA is the advantage gained by the initial occupant of a market segment. This advantage may stem from the fact that the first entrant can gain control of resources that followers may not be able to match.[1] Sometimes the first mover is not able to capitalise on its advantage, leaving the opportunity for another firm to gain second-mover advantage.

FMA is the sometimes insurmountable advantage gained by the initial or "first-moving" significant occupant of a new market segment. This advantage may stem from the fact that the first entrant can gain control of resources that followers may not be able to match. Originally made apparent by the ever booming internet phenomenon, it has recently been on the decline due to the recent economic situation. It is important to note that the first-mover advantage refers to the first significant company to move into a market, not merely the first company. In order for a company to try and become a first-mover that company needs to figure out if the overall rewards outweigh the beginning/underlying risks. Sometimes first-movers are rewarded with huge profit margins and a monopoly like status. Other times the first-mover is not able to capitalize on its advantage, leaving the opportunity for other firms to compete effectively and efficiently versus their earlier entrants. These individuals then gain a second-mover advantage.

These are;

1. Technological leadership

2. Preemption of scarce assets

3. Switching costs and buyer choice under uncertainty

First mover Disadvantages

Although in some cases being a first mover can create an overwhelming advantage, in some cases products that are first to market do not succeed. These products are victims of First Mover Disadvantages. These disadvantages include: "free-rider affects, resolution of technological or market uncertainty, shifts in technology or customer needs, and incumbent inertia".[2] Delving into each of these deeper we see:

1. Free-rider affects

2. Resolution of technological or market uncertainty

3. Shifts in technology or customer needs

4. Incumbent inertia