Off-line network effects

Chapter 2 in Web 2.0 discusses the network effects of both users and suppliers; here is an example of off-line network effects such as word-of-mouth. The article states how an early release of a product could have potentially ruined its success yet fortunately generated positive buzz and launched a successful campaign.

http://www.destinationcrm.com/Articles/Web-Exclusives/Viewpoints/The-Network-Effect-of-Word-of-Mouth-54713.aspx