Tools and Platforms by Jack Cheng

A theory: the further down the list we go, the more we think of it as Technology. (View Highlight)

Platforms often emphasize benefits like convenience and ease-of-use, while also claiming to solve concerns with less-platformized variants. (View Highlight)

When we talk about platforms in 2022, we mean networked platforms, and – I’m not sure who needs to hear this – network effects are not always positive. (View Highlight)

platformization transfers attention away from the tool and its uses to a growing space around the tool – from the sword to the blacksmith shop to the surrounding town square, eventually the whole bustling town – torch-wielding mobs and all. Tools want to be used; platforms want to be hung out in. (View Highlight)

How can we better discern between tools and platforms? When does it make sense to choose a platform over a tool? How can we build healthier platforms? How can we anticipate and hedge against some of the those unintended platform concerns? (View Highlight)

Favor tools over platforms, at least to start. (View Highlight)

Sometimes, platforms, when they get large and widespread enough, spawn protocols – protocols that persist long after the platforms themselves have died out. (View Highlight)