Paavo Ritala, a Professor of Strategy and Innovation at LUT University, shares his fascinating insights into platform research. He traces his journey from early network studies to the emergence of ecosystems. Ritala discusses the significance of network externalities, revealing how platform value grows with diverse user contributions. He also explores the balance between quantity and quality in user experiences and the role of amplified networks in enhancing platform synergy. Additionally, he highlights platforms' potential to address global challenges like sustainability and health.