# Usv Network Effects

> Use when evaluating platforms, marketplaces, and networks through a USV-style lens: network effects, defensibility, protocols, openness, and scalable distribution.

- Skill: `questflowai/usv-network-effects` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add questflowai/usv-network-effects`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/questflowai/usv-network-effects/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: questflowai (https://skillmd.com/u/questflowai)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/questflowai/usv-network-effects

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# 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.