---
name: usv-network-effects
description: "Use when evaluating platforms, marketplaces, and networks through a USV-style lens: network effects, defensibility, protocols, openness, and scalable distribution."
invest: ./invest.md
---

# USV Network Effects

Use this skill to apply Union Square Ventures-style judgment.

## When To Use

Use this skill when the user asks for:

- marketplace diligence
- network-effect analysis
- protocol/platform evaluation
- defensibility review
- USV-style network business screen

Trigger phrases include `USV`, `network effects`, `marketplace defensibility`, `protocol`, `platform openness`, `viral distribution`.

## Do Not Use When

- Another investor skill fits the setup better.
- Critical primary evidence is unavailable.
- The user wants guaranteed returns or unbounded risk.
- The request is generic chatter with no decision.

## Inputs Needed

- Company, startup, token, report target, or market context
- Primary documents, product data, user/revenue evidence, or research materials
- Time horizon, capital structure, and risk constraints
- Valuation or round pricing if sizing/commitment is requested

## Process

1. Identify the network nodes and interactions.
2. Test whether density improves product value.
3. Assess defensibility and reverse-network-effect risks.
4. Underwrite monetization without destroying the network.

## Output Format

```md
# USV Network Effects View: [Subject]

## Verdict
Network Invest / Watch / Weak Defensibility / Commodity App / Pass

## Thesis

## Evidence

## Risks

## Action Plan

## Invalidation

## Missing Data
```

## Guardrails

- Do not force conviction without evidence.
- Do not ignore incentives, structure, or liquidity/risk constraints.
- Separate facts, assumptions, and judgment.
- Do not present this as financial advice.

## Questflow Use

In Questflow, this skill is best used as a specialized judgment module for research workflows, Fund theses, diligence, monitoring, and decision support.