The Relationship Between Crowdsourcing and Consumer Power

Abstract

This research investigates consumer power in the context of crowdsourcing. In a series of studies, this research explores differences in consumer perceptions of power based on whether they participate in idea crowdsourcing (in which consumers submit ideas for new offerings) or in crowd voting (in which consumers are invited to vote for various options for new offerings). This research also manipulates whether the crowdsourced ideas or votes were accepted or rejected by the firm, and provides an investigation of consumer perceptions of power. Implications for marketers in terms of optimizing the management of a crowdsourcing initiative are discussed.