Empowering the Economic Impact of Virtual Communities

Abstract

Developments in information and communication technologies have led to changes in the consumption patterns of individuals and the distancing of businesses from traditional business models. Globally, the digital transformation process has led businesses to more innovative and flexible business models. Sharing economy is a type of digital economy in which goods or services are shared through digital networks, is an innovative and flexible business model. One of the key factors in sharing economic business models is the perception of trust. The term trust has been called the currency of the sharing economy. This chapter examines trust issues in sharing economy to empower the economic impact of virtual communities because trust is a key element in strengthening participation or knowledge sharing in virtual communities. In this respect, the concept of virtual communities and trust is explained. Moreover, the concept of trust in virtual communities and the effects of virtual communities on the economy are evaluated within the framework of sharing economy.