In the last few years, we have suddenly seen a spike in usage of the term software platform. All types of software applications started getting called platform. But the term platform has a specific meaning which differentiates it from technology/software applications. A platform enables other software applications to run on it, mostly to be used by end-users.
In other words, we could say that a platform by itself is useless to the end-users unless it is programmed or customised for specific usage. WordPress, Moodle, Google Forms, ODK, Avni - they are all platforms. Google Docs, MS Paint are not platforms as they are mostly consumed directly by the end-users. Though the ease of customisation can blur the lines between the user and the customiser and the same person may be playing both the roles.
It was important to establish this distinction so that we can answer the more relevant question - how should we decide when to use a platform and when to develop a bespoke software application? Bespoke means custom-made—made based on the specifications of the person ordering it, as in a bespoke suit (from dictionary.com). The diagram below shows two distinct scenarios.
The essential tradeoff between these two options is of cost, time, risk, and requirement match. A list of tradeoff involved are as follows:
Let us look bit deeper into what this means more specifically for community and field programs. Such programs lack these resources:
Hence the best solutions are those which require fewer funds, can be managed with technical skills available within the organisation, while largely satisfying the requirements. With these key parameters of evaluation in mind let us see the matrix below which presents various scenarios and our recommendations.
ps: Lastly, the question mark space may be of academic interest to some. Why such a blank space exists? As we understand, it is difficult for platforms to move up the feature ladder without moving right in customisation complexity as well (and vice-versa). Hence, where a platform places itself is a strategic tradeoff made by the organisation/people behind the platform. Overall one should always expect the blank space.
Icon credits: icons8
This article has been republished with permission from Samanvay Foundation. View the original here.