A platform is fundamentally any foundational structure, technology, or system that serves as a base on which other things are built, run, or presented. Because the term is used across many industries, its exact definition depends entirely on the context. 1. Technology & Computing
In the tech industry, a platform is the underlying hardware or software environment required to host and execute applications.
Operating Systems: Environments like Microsoft Windows, Android, and iOS provide the APIs and runtime standards that allow developers to build apps without worrying about the device’s raw hardware.
Cloud & Infrastructure: Frameworks like Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure act as platforms providing computing power, storage, and databases for companies to run their digital infrastructure.
Internal Developer Platforms: Tools maintained by dedicated engineering teams to simplify the deployment pipeline, letting software developers focus strictly on writing code. 2. Business Models & Economy
A platform business model creates value by facilitating exchanges or interactions between two or more interdependent groups, typically producers and consumers.
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