The Evolution of the Term “Platform”

“Platform” is a very common term nowadays, especially in the context of the internet, and this term has evolved over time. Initially, the word was related to something physical, like a stage where politicians gave speeches. Then, in the digital era, it began to be used to describe software and hardware systems that support the creation of applications. More recently, the term “platform” has come to represent the digital infrastructure that enables different groups to interact on the internet.

The main point is that platforms are challenging to define clearly because they are not physical objects like a cell phone or a website. Instead, they are like the rules of a chess game. You can remove the pieces and the chessboard itself, but you can still play the game because the rules are what really matter. Similarly, digital platforms are the rules that allow applications, users, and advertisers to interact on the internet. They are invisible and exist at a more abstract level.

Companies strategically use the term “platform.” For example, YouTube can claim to be a neutral platform that allows diversity of opinions while still controlling content monetization. This demonstrates how the flexibility of the word allows companies to shape their image according to their needs.

In summary, the concept of “platform” in the digital age is complex and has evolved over time. Platforms are more than simple applications or websites; they are invisible infrastructures that shape the way we interact online and offline.