| 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
- Identify the network nodes and interactions.
- Test whether density improves product value.
- Assess defensibility and reverse-network-effect risks.
- Underwrite monetization without destroying the network.
Output Format
# 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.
