Towards a Business Model Framework for E-learning Companies

E-learning nowadays influences almost every part of life. Individual learners as well as educational institutions and companies increasingly apply e-learning technologies. These developments come along with an increasing number of company formations in the e-learning industry. The choice of the right business model has proven to be an important success factor. To establish in the marketplace, these companies must be aware of their business model. Although a lot of research regarding business models has been carried out, e-learning specific characteristics have not been considered in terms of a standardized description of business models. This paper presents the derivation of a business model framework which addresses the specifications of the e-learning industry. It supports e-learning companies to describe and evaluate their business model according to a fixed scheme consisting of business model elements and their specifications.