Not mentioned but crucial: A service that grows exponentially in member count also grows very fast in terms of costs, due to the increased server load and man power needed. Hence, look early for a way to monetize the fact that you have many members, and see to that even when you scale up there’s profit. This even if you have investors.
Not All Network Effects Are Created Equal Tech News and Analysis
This is really good, but too many companies are already aware: “Viral pass-along is a key growth driver for social commerce and games, but now services and apps can hitch a ride on existing social networks, leveling what was once a steep playing field.”