Platform Thinking (shorts)

In simple terms it is Building Bridges in a Connected World

Does everyone in your company have an opinion on what is a platform and what it means by platform thinking? Maybe they already have a deck. It is likely good and useful. But sometimes I find it is important to take a step back and look at its application in the real world. Is this applicable? Or is it just tech mumbo-jumbo?

I believe it is applicable everywhere. So, let’s make an attempt to understand it then.

In today’s digital age, Platform Thinking is like a superpower that can change the way we do things. Imagine if your phone was just for calls — no apps, no camera, no games. Platforms are like that phone, but for everything we do. They’re not just tools; they’re bridges that connect us to what we need, and they’re changing the game.

So, what exactly is Platform Thinking? It’s like building a stage where others can perform. Platforms create spaces where people, services, and ideas can meet and interact. Take Uber or Airbnb, for instance. They don’t own taxis or hotels, but they connect people who need rides or a place to stay with those who provide them. It’s like a matchmaking service for what you want and what others can offer.

The cool thing is, that platforms aren’t limited to tech giants. You can apply this thinking to almost anything. Let’s say you love gardening. Instead of just growing plants, you could create a platform where fellow gardeners trade tips, seeds, and even tools. Suddenly, you’re not just a gardener; you’re a community builder.

Platforms also bring power to the people. They allow everyday folks to become entrepreneurs, reaching a global audience. Remember, YouTube turned regular people into stars, and Etsy lets crafters sell worldwide. The platform is your stage, and the world is your audience.

But hold on, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns. Building a platform takes work. You need to think about what people want, how they’ll use it, and how to keep it safe. Trust is crucial. After all, you wouldn’t stay in an Airbnb without reviews, right?

In a world of platforms, collaboration is king. Think about Apple’s App Store — it’s not just Apple making all those apps; it’s a whole bunch of people and companies working together. That’s the power of platforms — they’re like teamwork on steroids.

So, next time you’re brainstorming a project, think platform. How can you connect people, ideas, or services? What kind of stage can you build? Platforms aren’t about doing everything yourself; they’re about letting others shine. And that, my friends, is Platform Thinking — connecting, collaborating, and creating success in our connected world.

Cheers,
Amit