What is a Platform?

This month I ' ll deliver several keynote addresses.  In my presentations, I ' ll use terms such as platform enterprises, platform thinking, and platform strategy.  But what is a platform?Is it just a collection of standards?  If so,  is a USB flash drive a platform, since I can transfer a file from my Chromebook to someone else ' s Macbook using it, in a low effort, low cost fashion?Not exactly —in the USB example, there is no agreement about what file types are preferred, what data those files may contain and what security controls will be used to protect the integrity and privacy of the data.In my view, a platform is a combination of technology (data standards, APIs, security controls), policy (who can do what for what purpose with what privacy controls), and process (what workflow is supported by what people and what automation).  In short, it is a way to use knowledge and technology to facilitate connections, and create value in the process.For example, Unity Farm Sanctuary is entirely controlled with the Google Home platform. My locks, lights, thermostats, cameras, and mobile devices are linked via a set of APIs and security controls (OAuth). I can delegate rights to use selected devices for selected functions to authorized collaborators but the general public cannot gain access to my heat, light and power controls.   I use a combination of approaches to support device and workflow integration - Google Assistant routin...
Source: Life as a Healthcare CIO - Category: Information Technology Source Type: blogs