The Zombocom Problem: From 'Anything' to 'Something Specific' in Software Development

2024-12-29

This article explores the 'Zombocom Problem' – the failure of many low-code/no-code platforms, super apps, etc., due to their inability to meet specific user needs. The author argues that success hinges on solving a specific problem for a specific user, finding product-market fit. Amazon's success story illustrates this: it started as an online bookstore, gradually expanding into other areas. Similarly, Excel succeeded because it initially targeted small business owners and accountants. The author emphasizes that platforms should emerge from products, not the other way around; build great standalone products first, then consider platformization. Ultimately, the author concludes that the key to success lies in combining systems thinking and product thinking—understanding system-level opportunities while identifying the first best customer, thus transforming from a 'single-purpose product' to a 'platform'.