• Journal of the Korean Operations Research and Management Science Society
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.15-26
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• 2007

This study analyzes revenue-maximizing strategies of online auction sellers in terms of setting up starting bids and buy-it-now options. To this end, a series of field experiments is conducted where women's hair accessories of unique designs are listed in an established online auction site. The results of the experiments argue that high starting bids could increase sellers' revenue while buy-it-now options have no significant effects. Our findings suggest that online auction sellers listing items with uncertain demand - mainly individual sellers - should be cautious with auction tips which generally support low starting buds.