Finding the right platform for your software project is just one of several similar challenges in business: finding the right market, the right way to market to customers, the right management strategy, etc. In this case, the right platform most closely aligns with identifying the best marketing channel to reach and motivate your customers.

When viewed from that angle, it helps understand which aspects of the platform are important. Each platform is slightly different and has particular characteristics. For example, while the iPadTM runs on the iPhoneTM 4 operating system, it is a separate platform than that of the iPhone because it is used differently, has slightly different capability, and is used by a different demographic. Also, not only do people use the iPad differently than the iPhone, but they use it in different situations and for different purposes.

Platforms vary in size, compatibility, power and purpose. They range from a standard desktop computer, to Microsoft’s® multi-touch and multi-user Surface™, to mobile devices, to information terminals. Each has its own distinct benefits and drawbacks, which can have a large impact on the results of a project, as well as the implementation, use and financial return for your company.

In order to identify which platform is best for your particular need, there are 4 simple questions you can ask yourself.

1. What will the application do?

Probably the most obvious question, but defining exactly what you want your software project to do is an important first step. However, it is also important to note that often people determine the platform before they decide what the software will do (as in, "I want an iPhone app for my business.)

While an iPhone app for your business might be a really good choice, determining if it is the best choice is another matter. It is important to decide what you want the software to do in order to guide your choice in determining the right platform. Maybe an Android™ phone app would be better, or a custom Microsoft Surface in your lobby.

2. What will this application do for you or your business?

Understanding the purpose of the application helps define key features of the application itself, which relates back to the first question. Make sure that you understand how it is supposed to benefit yourself, and justify the time and effort put into the project.

This also helps narrow down the platform. For example, an application that is designed to bring users into a local restaurant and increase sales would probably use a different platform than one that is intended to teach current customers about the sustainability and local food efforts used by the restaurant.

3. What value will users of this application receive?

What will your software do to benefit your customers and provide value to them? People will not use the application and software just because you want them to; they need an incentive as well. Make sure that the platform fits the benefit.

4. Where will people use this application?

"Everywhere" is almost an acceptable answer, but try to be more specific. Focus on situations or circumstances. Will it be people riding the bus to work in the morning, or people skipping around town with their friends on a Friday night, or people coming in to your stores or restaurants?

This helps make the software application convenient to use because it is designed from the beginning to be used on that particular platform. This is why iPhone apps do not usually make for good iPad apps without some extra customization. As previously stated, people use tablets differently from iPhones, including how they hold it, how they view it, and the circumstances of its use.

At Amadeus Consulting, we have a great team of experienced application developers that cover everything from rich internet applications to mobile app development, and even Microsoft Surface development. We are also happy to help provide some technology and software consulting and help you weigh the benefits of different software and platform types to ensure the best possible success of your next software project.