In the field of platform engineering, especially within the realm of embedded software, organizations face numerous challenges and opportunities. According to recent research by Forrester Consulting commissioned by Qt Group, nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of embedded software in use comprises custom, ad hoc solutions. These custom solutions often clash with the need for high-quality, standardized components, leading to significant hurdles in platform engineering strategies. Despite the promise of enhanced automation and streamlined workflows through platform engineering, many IT teams find themselves entangled in the complexities of writing bespoke code tailored to various devices, operating systems, and hardware environments.
One of the most notable challenges comes from the management of diverse platforms, with 51 percent of respondents highlighting this as a significant hurdle. Custom solutions, while necessary to meet specific hardware and software requirements, further complicate the task of maintaining quality and security standards. About 49 percent of embedded software developers report difficulties in platform customization due to these bespoke solutions. Although a striking 65 percent of respondents believe their proprietary platform is mature, these custom-built solutions often act as roadblocks to scalable automation and effective security measures.
Complexity in Managing Diverse Platforms
The intricacy of managing various platforms is a pivotal challenge in the world of platform engineering. The necessity to deliver specific hardware and software solutions while upholding stringent quality and security standards magnifies this complexity. While platform engineering aims to simplify workflows through automation, the requirement for custom code across different devices and environments often increases rather than decreases complexity. This environment necessitates the creation of bespoke solutions, which in turn can hinder the standardization process crucial for seamless operations.
Furthermore, a shortage of skilled IT professionals compounds these issues, affecting 50 percent of IT teams. The integration of legacy platforms, coupled with resistance from product teams, presents additional hurdles. Despite these significant challenges, the silver lining is that 93 percent of respondents indicated managerial support for platform engineering initiatives. This overwhelming support suggests a robust institutional will to succeed, pointing toward a future where these challenges can be effectively managed and overcome.
Strategies to Maximize Platform Engineering Value
In platform engineering, particularly within embedded software, organizations encounter significant challenges and opportunities. Recent research by Forrester Consulting for Qt Group shows that nearly 63 percent of embedded software consists of custom, ad hoc solutions. These specialized solutions often conflict with the need for standardized, high-quality components, creating substantial obstacles in platform engineering strategies. While platform engineering promises improved automation and more efficient workflows, many IT teams struggle with the complexities of crafting bespoke code tailored to various devices, operating systems, and hardware environments.
A major issue stems from managing diverse platforms, with 51 percent of respondents citing this as a significant challenge. Custom solutions, necessary for specific hardware and software needs, further complicate maintaining quality and security standards. About 49 percent of embedded software developers report difficulties in platform customization due to these hand-tailored solutions. Although 65 percent of respondents believe their proprietary platform is mature, these custom solutions often hinder scalable automation and the implementation of effective security measures.
