Introduction
The realization of the platform boom that will come in three years relies on specialists with various skills necessary for platform building. With the increasing activity of American tech giants, there will be a need for skilled personnel. In Japan, there are few platform specialists, and if this boom arrives in three years without local experts, the demand for many foreign professionals will grow significantly. Japanese experts will miss out on lucrative opportunities. This time, we will talk to freelancers, businesspersons, and small business owners about the growing need for platform skills, the potential for the future, and how to learn these skills.
For Businesspersons
In three years, there is a possibility of a major transformation in Japan’s business scene. The Big Data Platform Project promoted by the Japanese government and the entry of American tech giants will drive this change. By understanding this trend and preparing now, you too can ride this wave.
Why Will There Be a Platform Boom in Three Years?
The Japanese government is promoting the Big Data Platform Project, which is expected to significantly change Japan’s digital infrastructure. This project will accelerate the business transformation driven by data utilization (data-driven), and it is anticipated that new business models will emerge through the use of big data. Moreover, American tech giants (Google, Amazon, Microsoft, OpenAI, etc.) see this as a business opportunity and are entering the Japanese market. These companies are already professionals in the successful platform business, and their entry will undoubtedly trigger a large-scale platform boom in Japan. However, professional personnel are indispensable to truly bring about this transformation.
For example, Google demonstrates a strong presence in the cloud services sector and shows leadership in big data management and analysis. Amazon, as a giant in e-commerce, utilizes its vast data to continuously develop new services. Microsoft supports the digital transformation of companies through its Azure platform, providing large-scale data processing capabilities. OpenAI leverages advanced AI technology to aim for business efficiency and new value creation. As these companies enter the Japanese market and deploy large-scale big data platforms, Japan’s business environment will change significantly.
Additionally, the Big Data Platform Project promoted by the Japanese government will encourage the opening and sharing of public data, providing a foundation for companies and research institutions to develop new services and products. For example, the real-time collection and analysis of vast amounts of data, such as transportation data and medical data, is expected to create new business opportunities.
So, What Exactly is a Platform?
A platform is a place that connects those who provide services or products (suppliers) with those who need them (demanders). For example, Uber connects passengers with drivers, and Amazon connects sellers with buyers. These platforms provide an environment where both parties can meet efficiently and transactions can be established.
Platform businesses not only mediate transactions but also lead to valuable ecosystems (cross-industry collaboration) for users. For instance, Uber enhances safety and reliability by introducing a rating system between drivers and passengers. Amazon improves user experience by offering a wide range of products, rapid delivery services, and excellent customer support.
Furthermore, platforms can provide personalized services tailored to users’ needs by accumulating and utilizing data. For example, Netflix suggests movies and TV shows based on viewing history, increasing user engagement. Such personalized services not only improve user satisfaction but also enhance the overall value of the platform.
Why Are Platforms Important?
Platform businesses create great value by connecting many people, achieving overwhelming customer acquisition, profit, and growth through cross-industry power.
Their strengths include the following:
- Scalability: Once established, the more users there are, the greater the profit. Platforms can achieve further growth by leveraging a large user base. For example, Facebook’s advertising revenue increases as its user base grows, allowing it to offer more services.
- Network Effects: The more users there are, the more valuable the platform becomes. New users benefit existing users, increasing the platform’s attractiveness. For instance, LinkedIn’s new professionals provide more business opportunities for existing members.
- Sustainable Revenue: A broad user base enables stable revenue. Platform businesses achieve sustainable business models with stable revenue as users increase. For example, Netflix earns stable revenue with many subscribers, allowing it to invest in producing original content.
Why Are Platform Skills in Demand?
As digitalization progresses, many companies are leveraging platforms. However, in Japan, there are still few people with expertise in this field, and the introduction of platform models is lagging. Professionals who understand management strategy can work with managers to design and prepare platform models. Various skilled personnel are needed here.
As the movement to introduce platforms grows, the demand for freelancers and foreign professionals with the right skills will undoubtedly increase.
Future lucrative skills are not easily acquired. Platform building skills take time to learn, and starting now will enable you to seize business opportunities three years from now and beyond.
Having platform skills means not only technical abilities but also understanding business strategy and the power to execute it.
Don’t just think of it as being a tech person. For example, to build an effective platform, you need a deep understanding of user needs and management strategies to provide functions and services that meet those needs. Data analysis and marketing skills are also important. By acquiring these skills, you can lead a platform to success.
Why Does It Take at Least Three Years to Build Platform Skills?
It is said that it takes at least three years to acquire platform building skills. This is because you need to accumulate experience through actual projects, not just learn the theory. Here are the reasons:
Basic Knowledge Acquisition:
Learning the basic programming skills and cloud services needed for platform building takes time. This includes understanding programming languages such as Python and JavaScript and cloud platforms such as AWS and GCP.
Practical Experience:
Learning theory alone is not enough. Participating in actual projects and gaining practical experience is essential. This includes designing and building platforms and continuously improving based on user feedback. This process also cultivates problem-solving skills and project management abilities.
Continuous Learning:
Technology is constantly evolving, with new tools and frameworks emerging. Continuous learning is necessary. Keeping up with the latest technology trends helps maintain your skills and competitiveness.
English Online Training:
Much of the latest technical information and training is provided in English. Participating in online courses and training in English helps you acquire the world’s most advanced knowledge. Platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer many high-quality courses in English.
While acquiring platform building skills requires time and effort, the value is significant. Establishing yourself as a specialist with advanced skills can lead to high future earnings.
Three Concrete Steps to Start Now
1. Learn Cutting-Edge Skills from the U.S. on Udemy and Coursera:
Take online courses related to platform building. Udemy and Coursera offer many practical skill courses. For example, Udemy’s “The Complete Guide to Building Your Own Platform” covers the basics and applications of platform business. Coursera offers a course called “Platform Strategy for Business,” teaching platform building from a business strategy perspective.
2. Participate in Specialized Training and Workshops:
Hone practical skills by participating in specialized training and workshops. This allows you to experience the latest technology and trends. Hands-on training in platform development is particularly effective. For example, TechStars and General Assembly offer intensive training programs for startups, teaching the process of building platforms. Networking with industry experts is also possible.
3. Obtain Cloud Certifications (AWS, GCP, etc.):
Prove your cloud skills essential for platform building by obtaining certifications such as AWS and GCP. This shows your knowledge of cloud infrastructure design and operation and gains trust from companies. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect are particularly useful. Obtaining these certifications demonstrates your ability to effectively build and operate cloud-based platforms.
Actual Success Stories
For example, a foreign freelancer built a platform to sell Japanese traditional crafts to overseas markets. This platform connected artisans with consumers worldwide, allowing artisans to access new markets and achieve great success. The key takeaways from this success story are effectively matching supply and demand, focusing on user experience, and building a sustainable business model.
Another success story involves a startup that built an educational platform and entered the online learning market. This company provided high-quality educational content and created a platform connecting instructors and learners. As a result, many students could access quality education from home, and the company grew rapidly. This success story also highlights the potential and importance of platform business.
Additionally, a company successfully utilized OpenAI’s technology to automate customer support. By using OpenAI’s natural language processing technology, the company quickly and accurately responded to customer inquiries, significantly improving customer satisfaction. Furthermore, by leveraging AI for data analysis, the company accurately understood customer needs and provided more personalized services. Utilizing advanced technology increases the success rate of platform business.
Future Prospects and Conclusion
Acquiring platform building skills gives you a significant advantage in the future business environment. Find new revenue sources and take the first step to grow your business. Your ideas can create new business opportunities and lead to your growth. Nothing starts without taking on challenges. Now is the time to take action!
The future of platform business is bright, and its growth will accelerate. In Japan, especially, the Big Data Platform Project and the entry of tech giants are expected to bring significant transformation. To ride this wave, it is essential to start preparing now.
First, review your skill set and begin acquiring the necessary skills. Deepen your knowledge of platform building and stay updated on the latest technology and trends. Expanding your network will allow you to exchange information with like-minded people and find new business opportunities.
Finally, build a sustainable business model and strategize to generate long-term revenue. Once successful, platform business can continuously generate stable revenue. Prioritize user experience and continually improve to achieve this.
By acquiring platform building skills, you can undoubtedly seize future business opportunities. Take action now and take the first step toward success. Your success will significantly impact Japan’s
business scene.