Thinking Platforms with Spencer Pitman

Notes

Our first platform design episode featured Spencer Pittman who joined as a guest to discuss the importance of platform thinking and how games can be used as a metaphor for designing platforms.

Platform thinking involves looking beyond the product or service and considering the platform as a sociotechnical ecosystem. It requires a focus on creating value for all parties involved, including users, developers, and partners. In this sense, platform design is more than just creating a product, it’s about building a thriving ecosystem.

Spencer explains that games provide a useful metaphor for understanding platform design. In games, the designer creates a set of rules and a virtual environment in which players can interact. Similarly, in platform design, the designer creates a set of rules and an ecosystem in which users developers, operators and teams can interact.

Spencer also emphasizes the importance of creating a level playing field for all parties involved in the platform, allowing for open innovation and collaboration. By doing so, the platform can evolve and adapt to the needs of its users and the changing market conditions.

One of the key insights from the conversation is the importance of designing for the long-term. By focusing on building a platform ecosystem that is sustainable, the platform can continue to create value for all parties involved. This requires a commitment to ongoing development and iteration, as well as a willingness to pivot when necessary.

Platform design is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a focus on creating value for all parties involved. By using games as a metaphor for designing platforms, we can gain a better understanding of the importance of creating a level playing field and designing for the long-term.

If you’re interested in learning more about platform design, be sure to check out the full podcast episode on @ergonauticly!

Hosts

Jabe Bloom (read more about Ergonautic founders)

Guest

Spencer Pitman, Senior Engineering Manager, Singularity 6, @AlcesBull