What is a Platform? Definition, Functions, Types & Examples

"Platform" is a term you've probably heard a lot, especially in this digital age. But, do you know what it means, what it does, as well as some of its types and examples?

In literal, the word "platform" means a program or a work plan. Usually, we toss around the term when talking about digital spaces, especially mobile apps.

So, let's discover what is a platform all about and explore the whole concept in this article.

What Is a Platform? 

In the world of IT, a platform is like the behind-the-scenes hero – it could be hardware or software that supports the operation of an application program. 

Essentially, it is used as the foundation and operational infrastructure to integrate applications, products, or services for an organization or business.

As the digital marketing game evolves, the use of various platforms has proven super helpful for businesses in achieving success and engaging consumers. 

What Is a Digital Platform?

Well, just like the name suggests, a digital platform is specifically designed to run a digital system smoothly. 

This platform lets users interact, build, and run applications or services. Most importantly, it can cover all sorts of tech stuff, from hardware and software to communication service providers.

Platform Functions

Now that you understand “what is a platform”, let's delve into the various functions of this technology.

1. Facilitating Application/Service Development

In certain types of platforms, you'll find Software Development Kits (SDKs) that make it easy for developer teams to design, develop, and test applications. 

Additionally, platforms supporting application development often provide Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) that seamlessly integrate with SDKs.

Notes: IDEs are commonly used as code editors, debuggers, and project managers to generate high-quality code.

2. Maximizing Technological Infrastructure for Business

Another platform function is to support a business's infrastructure and maximize digital marketing efforts. 

With a suitable platform, businesses can enhance their operations through customer database storage, cloud computing, and network services and security.

For instance, cloud computing platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure offer scalable infrastructure, making it easy for businesses to efficiently store and manage customer data. 

By leveraging storage capacities on various digital platforms, businesses can manage data without having to allocate budgets to physical infrastructure, which is typically much more expensive.

3. Improving Access and Distribution Efficiency

Typically, platforms can encompass various distribution channels, ranging from e-commerce to mobile applications. 

Therefore, platforms can assist businesses in reaching a broader base of potential customers across different geographical scopes. 

For example, e-commerce platforms like Shopee or Amazon provide a digital space where businesses can showcase their products or services to a global audience.

4. Enhancing Security

Businesses need to maintain information and data security to safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information. 

Some modern platforms come equipped with extra protection against hacking threats such as malware or phishing, providing additional benefits to businesses using them.

5. Providing Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)

With the rapid advancements in technology, various platforms now offer programming interfaces or APIs. By using such platforms, you can enhance service connectivity to expand functionality and create a more integrated digital ecosystem.

6. Boosting Business Revenue

If you already grasp the concept of “what is a platform” then you must understand that using it can enhance performance efficiency, ultimately maximizing business profits. 

By selecting a suitable digital marketing platform, you can increase brand awareness, generate leads, and achieve your business's ROI targets.

7. Facilitating Users in Running Applications/Software

Platforms generally provides a navigable interface for various applications. With a platform, users can access and use different types of applications without needing to understand complex technical details.

In addition to the six functions mentioned above, according to Deepstash, platforms fundamentally have three other common functions: Pull, Facilitate, and Match. Here's an explanation of each:

• Pull: Attracts and invites users by accommodating their needs.
• Facilitate: Streamlines various processes or interactions desired by users.
• Match: Connects users with content databases, services, or other individuals based on algorithms and preferences.

Platform Types

Now that you understand “what is a platform” and its functions, it's time to acquaint yourself with its most common types.

• Computing Platform: Also known as a computing platform, it enables interaction between users and developer teams with a two-way network effect.
• Utility Platform: Technological infrastructure providing basic services such as data storage or other resources.
• Technology Platform: Serves as the foundation in the development and implementation of various software components.
• Interaction Networks: Facilitates professional communication, collaboration, and social interaction.
• On-demand Service Platforms: Offers instant access based on user requests for services. Examples include food delivery platforms, ride-sharing apps, etc.
• Marketplaces: Platforms that facilitate interactions and transactions between sellers and buyers.
• Content Crowdsourcing Platforms: Infrastructure that can gather creative content databases and involve a large number of people.
• Data Harvesting Platforms: Eases the collection, organization, and management of data from various sources.
• Content Distribution Platforms: Facilitates the dissemination or distribution of content to a large audience. Examples include news portals, streaming apps, and social media platforms.

Platform Examples

To further grasp the concept of what a platform entails, let's explore some examples of popular platforms:

• Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, and more.
• Digital Wallet Platforms: Mobile Banking, OVO, Gopay, Dana, and more.
• Stock Photo Asset Platforms: Freepik, Unsplash, Pexels, Pinterest, and more.
• Marketplace Platforms: Shopee, Tokopedia, Lazada, Amazon, and more.
• Search Engine Platforms: Google, Chrome, Bing, Yahoo, and more.
• AI Platforms: ChatGPT, Google Bard, and more.
• Communication Platforms: Google Meet, Zoom, Telegram, WhatsApp, and more.
• Video/Mobile Game Platforms: Minecraft, Fortnite, and more.

That was all the explanation of what is a platform, its functions, types, and some examples that you may have heard of.

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