The Power of Platforms: Why Ecosystems Win in Business and Life

How Building Worlds, Not Just Products, Creates Unstoppable Momentum

Why do some companies become industry giants while others fade away? The answer, as 'Strategy Rules' shows, lies in the power of platforms and ecosystems. Gates, Grove, and Jobs understood that building a great product is just the beginning—the real magic happens when you create a world where others can innovate alongside you.

Understanding Platforms
A platform is more than a product; it’s a foundation for others to build on. Windows became the standard not just because it was good software, but because it attracted thousands of developers. The more apps, the more users; the more users, the more developers—a virtuous cycle known as network effects.

The Ecosystem Advantage
Apple’s iOS ecosystem ties together hardware, software, and services. This integration keeps customers loyal and makes it hard for competitors to lure them away. Intel’s chips power an entire industry, creating standards that others must follow. The lesson: build connections, not just products.

Applying Ecosystem Thinking
You don’t have to run a tech company to benefit from this rule. Think about your network at work, your creative collaborators, or your community. How can you create value together? How can you make it easy for others to join and contribute?

By focusing on platforms and ecosystems, you unlock exponential growth—for your business, your career, or your personal projects.