Except that neither the customer (the user) nor the provider (the driver) defines the price. The middle-man (Uber) does. The middle-man decides what tools (car

Except that neither the customer (the user) nor the provider (the driver) defines the price. The middle-man (Uber) does. The middle-man decides what tools (car models) the provider may use to do it's work. The middle-man unilateraly sets the Terms & Conditions for both the customers and the providers, without any room for negotiation. The middle-man decides which providers may or may not get the gig. And the middle-man can cut anyone out of the platform at any time without giving notice or justification. In your example, you fix the price. The provider (handyman) may use the tool of his choosing and, if things go well, the provider is allowed to give you his business card, and you to employ his services directly in the future. The platform really is just a medium, just like the cork panel at your local supermarket, with an extra mediation capability / service.