Final answer:
Tech platform businesses face strategic issues such as the impact of open source software on the economy, ethical responsibilities, and adapting to new business models in a digital marketplace that fosters both opportunities for small firms and 'winner-take-all' markets.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many tech platform businesses are navigating strategic challenges due to shifts in markets influenced by technology and globalization. The development of open source operating systems like Linux has altered the high-tech economic landscape by providing a cost-effective alternative to proprietary software, which affects profit models and pushes for innovation in companies like Microsoft. Additionally, the ethical responsibilities of corporations in the realm of social, economic, and environmental issues add layers of complexity as they adjust to the emerging technologies. With the rise of the internet, consumer behaviors have shifted, enabling both small and large firms to potentially thrive; however, this also fosters 'winner-take-all' markets where dominant players can capture significant market shares. Companies are adopting new business models, like subscription and freemium models, while weighing the impact of increased competition due to e-commerce and digital marketplaces.
These topics touch on ongoing debates about firm size, market reach, and ethical responsibility in the digital age. For instance, tech giants like Amazon have benefited immensely from e-commerce, suggesting a trend towards consolidation, while smaller firms leverage digital tools to operate on a global scale. However, the digital divide, security risks, and technological reliability are significant concerns that these firms must address as they evolve.