A field study on matching with network externalities

Publication Year
2012

Type

Journal Article
Abstract
We study the effects of network externalities within a protocol for matching faculty to offices in a new building. Using web and survey data on faculty's attributes and choices, we identify the different layers of the social network: institutional affiliation, coauthorships, and friendships. We quantify the effects of network externalities on choices and outcomes, disentangle the layers of the networks, and quantify their relative influence. Finally, we assess the protocol used from a welfare perspective. Our study suggests the importance and feasibility of accounting for network externalities in assignment problems and evaluates techniques that can be employed to this end. (JEL C78, C93, D62, D85, Z13) [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]
Journal
American economic review
Volume
102
Issue
5
Pages
- 1804
Date Published
Aug 2012
ISBN
0002-8282, 0002-8282