platform

Platform is a term with multiple meanings across physical and digital contexts. Historically, a platform is a raised, flat surface used as a stage, a base for machinery, or a starting point. In modern terminology, platform also refers to an environment that allows another set of components to operate or interact. In computing, a platform comprises the hardware and software infrastructure—such as the processor architecture, operating system, runtime, and APIs—that enables the development, deployment, and execution of applications. Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), mobile platforms (iOS, Android), and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) are common examples. Platform boundaries can be composed of hardware, firmware, middleware, and service layers.

A platform-based business model centers on a core infrastructure that facilitates interactions among distinct user groups, typically producers and consumers. Platforms provide tools, standards, and governance to enable value creation, often leveraging network effects where the platform becomes more valuable as more participants join. Examples include app marketplaces, social networks, payment ecosystems, and developer portals.

Governance, interoperability, and security are key considerations for platforms. Standards, APIs, data portability, and anti-competitive risks influence how open or closed a platform should be. In technology strategy, platformization describes the process of creating reusable platform components that expose services through APIs to enable rapid composition of applications and services.