Through our Cookie Center, users have the ability to select individual categories of cookies used on the websites. For more information about the cookies used, please see our COOKIE POLICY.

Platform Thinking HUB
The opportunities and benefits of Platform Thinking as a tool for innovation analyzed by the Platform Thinking HUB Observatory of the School of Management of Politecnico di Milano.
Objectives of the Observatory
The Platform Thinking HUB Observatory is the reference community for innovation leaders, in which to imagine revolutionary digital business transformations built on platform-based mechanisms.
Nearly ten years of research have enabled us to understand that there are many types of platforms based on models that startups have leveraged with exceptional results. However, platforms are not necessarily digital, they are not necessarily developed in the Silicon Valley, and they are not necessarily startups. Our goal is to find out how they can become innovation instruments for existing enterprise companies.
Platform Thinking HUB Observatory Research
As part of Research, the Platform Thinking HUB Observatory aims to:
- develop a shared language around the Platform Thinking concept;
- understand the main innovation strategies that can be pursued by established business organizations;
- identify the assets required to trigger these types of transformations;
- find out about the main results that Platform Thinking can provide to established companies;
- see examples of large companies that have experienced a platform transformation;
- join a community of sparring partners to discuss possible platform evolutions and inspire each other.
Platform Thinking HUB presentation slides are available here.
Activities
Activities planned by the Platform Thinking HUB include:
-
A kickoff event to present the project
-
In field research to identify main Platform Thinking strategies for existing enterprise companies, studying the connection with assets they already have and with the possible results of the Platform Thinking process
-
Three Platform Thinking Gym sessions in which Observatory Partners apply the Platform Thinking methodology to a business case developed for their organization to directly explore the potential benefits of Platform Thinking
-
Two Platform Thinking Clubs in which to explore how the world of platforms evolves in sectors defined by the community of Partners and Sponsors with the goal of generating ideas and making connections
-
A public conference to present Research activity results, with round tables and keynote speakers representing leading organizations in this sector
-
Five Platform Stories – integrated in the Gyms and Clubs – where to engage with companies that want to share their platform projects bringing us backstage to share best practices and challenges
Become a supporter of the Platform Thinking HUB Observatory
The Platform Thinking HUB Observatory is supported by several industry businesses. Take part in the Research, access Observatory exclusive data before anyone else, network with companies and qualified experts and gain visibility in our events.
For more information please contact Daniel Trabucchi (daniel.trabucchi@polimi.it).
Work Group

Tommaso Buganza
Scientific Officer and Research Director