A type of flexible economic network is emerging in recent generations: the shared economy. In this economy the products, services, talent, and other resources are shared among users, often at significantly less cost than traditional commercial sales. Thanks to this, new ways to obtain profits (besides your 9-5) arise from the objects or spaces that you own.
Using what belongs to others
In this type of economy, things that belong to somebody else are exploited. The most emblematic example is the car. 96% of the time, your car is parked. And many times, it's only for your use.
What if you carpooled with someone else and made (or saved) money?
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Platforms like Uber, Cabify or Lyft are facilitators for users close to you to find you and get into someone else's car. But if you don't have a car, there is also a benefit for you, sharing a trip is cheaper, between 35% and 50%, compared to taxis.
The paradigm where everyone owns something in particular is changing. Millennials are no longer interested in possession, but in access to things.
Types of services in a shared economy
We can all participate in some way in a shared economy. Here are some of the best known examples.
1. Selling and Re Selling
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We all know Amazon, Ebay or Craigslist. These sites allow you to buy, sell, and sometimes trade in new, pre-owned, or used products, without the need to leave your home. There are other sites that specialize in a particular niche.
Just by doing a search on Google, you can find a site dedicated to your most extravagant tastes.
2. Crowdfunding
If you know Kickstarter or Indiegogo, then you're already familiar with Crowdfunding. Entrepreneurs, artists, and people who want to start a project can look for these type of platforms to expose their idea to a community of potential investors and set an economic goal.
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There are many cases of projects that have been financed by thousands of contributors, reaching their goal in a few days or even just a few hours. Although it is understood that investors won't get a return on their investment if the project is carried out, many times rewards of merchandise or services are offered to the investor depending on the amount they put up for the project.
Additionally, this type of dynamic has been adopted in other industries such as solar energy or real estate developments, where a return on investment is expected. In addition, there is financing through cryptocurrencies that can help start innovation projects.
3. Renting spaces to live and work
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