Why do we need a platform?

Part 1: What are Platforms?

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Platforms, in generic terms, refer to foundational systems or environments that support and enable various activities, applications, or services. They provide a base upon which other elements can be built, operated, or interacted with. Let us look the brief overview:

1. Purpose: Platforms serve as a foundation for other things to work on or with.

2. Versatility: They can be physical, digital, or conceptual.

3. Standardization: Platforms often provide a set of standards or protocols that allow different components to work together.

4. Ecosystem: They typically foster an ecosystem of users, developers, or participants who interact with and build upon the platform.

5. Examples:

- Technology: Operating systems, cloud computing services

- Business: E-commerce marketplaces, social media networks

- Physical: Manufacturing assembly lines, transportation hubs

6. Benefits: Platforms can increase efficiency, enable innovation, and create network effects.

7. Challenges: They may lead to dependency or raise concerns about market dominance.

As an avid enthusiast of public transportation, particularly trains, I believe it would be enlightening to delve into the potential correlations between platforms and the software industry. To illustrate this concept more clearly, I would like to use train platforms as an example.

Train platforms are a classic example of a physical platform in transportation. They serve several key functions:

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1. Purpose: Seamlessly onboard and offboard passengers and their luggage.
2. Versatility: They are physical.
3. Standardization: Platform designs are often standardized within a rail network to ensure compatibility with different train types and to provide a consistent experience for passengers.
   - Accessibility: Modern platforms are designed with accessibility in mind, including features like ramps, elevators, and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers.
   - Connectivity: In larger stations, platforms connect to other parts of the transportation hub, such as other platforms, concourses, or links to other modes of transport.
   - Interface point: Train platforms act as the physical interface between passengers and trains. They provide a designated space for boarding and alighting.
   - Safety: Platforms are designed to ensure passenger safety by providing a stable, level surface at the appropriate height relative to the train doors.
   - Information hub: They often feature information displays showing train schedules, destinations, and real-time updates.
   - Access control: In many systems, platforms are access-controlled areas, helping to manage passenger flow and ensure only ticketed passengers board trains.
   - Infrastructure support: Platforms often house other necessary infrastructure like lighting, security cameras, emergency call points, and sometimes ticketing machines.
   - Waiting area: Platforms typically include seating and shelter for passengers waiting for their trains.
4. Ecosystem: Some platforms, especially in busier stations, may include small commercial areas like kiosks or vending machines.
5. Benefits: Safety, efficiency, crowd management, and operational flexibility are some of the key benefits offered by such platforms at train stations.
6. Challenges: Accessibility and modernization, maintenance and weather resilience, capacity, and overcrowding are some of the key challenges.

This concept of a platform in transportation extends beyond just trains. You can see similar principles applied in bus stations, airports (with gates serving as platforms) etc.

Next time, let us take a look at how this relates to platforms that are used in developing enterprise software.