The conventional wisdom has long held that developing software for multiple platforms is a pretty daunting endeavor that’s packed with a slew of costs, complexities, and stress. Yet, that idea is being challenged by a pair of researchers. Their recent study has revealed something of a rather compelling case for multihoming, which is basically the fancy term for the practice of releasing software on various platforms.
Researchers Francisco Polidoro Jr. and Wei Yang looked into open-source software packages to uncover the potential benefits of this strategy and have recently published their results.
The findings were striking: companies that ventured into multihoming experienced a significant uptick in usage on their original platform. This counterintuitive result suggests that far from diluting a product’s appeal, expanding its reach can actually bolster its core user base.
The crux of the matter lies in the invaluable insights gained during the adaptation process. By navigating the unique challenges of different platforms, developers acquire a deeper understanding of their software’s architecture, performance, and user needs. These learnings can be applied to refine and enhance the original product, resulting in a more robust, efficient, and user-centric experience. Consequently, the software’s reputation and appeal are likely to grow, attracting new users while retaining existing ones.
But beyond product improvement, multihoming offers an advantage in terms of market reach. Expanding the software’s availability to a wider audience can exponentially increase its user base. The study found that products with similar competitors saw a notable surge in usage after venturing into new platforms. This highlights the potential for multihoming to drive growth and market share.
Take, for example, online casino apps for real money. These apps have rapidly gained popularity due to their accessibility and the sheer convenience on offer. By being available on both iOS and Android devices, online casino operators can tap into a massive user base. Moreover, players can enjoy their favorite games on the go, without being tied to a desktop computer.
We can also look at productivity apps as another example. These apps have become pretty much indispensable for both personal and professional use - and developers are acutely aware of this. By offering versions for smartphones, tablets, and desktops, these productivity app developers can make sure their legions of user are able to access their tools and data anytime, anywhere. This consistency enhances user experience and boosts app loyalty.
It’s essential to dispel the myth that multihoming is solely a resource-intensive strategy. While it undoubtedly requires careful planning and execution, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial challenges. By strategically selecting target platforms and leveraging existing codebases, developers can mitigate costs and risks. Moreover, the potential rewards in terms of product enhancement, user growth, and competitive advantage make it a compelling option.
While concerns about divided developer attention are understandable, the research suggests that the opposite is often true. By gaining a broader perspective and deeper understanding of their software, developers are better equipped to address user needs and improve the overall product experience.