The Results Are In: Now is the Time for Business to Embrace Application Platforms

A new commissioned research study conducted by Forrester Consulting on behalf of Appian has identified the need for new application platforms as a way to address work challenges and transform today’s modern businesses. The study, titled “The Move Toward Modern Application Platforms,” is based on survey data from IT managers and business directors on the current trends, challenges, and benefits related to the adoption of modern application development within enterprise organizations.

The study revealed a number of predictions about the urgency for IT professionals to accelerate delivery of innovative business applications, as well as a series of compelling statistics. According to Forrester Consulting, 59 percent of survey respondents stated they must custom-build applications because specific functionality unique to their business is not available in pre-packaged, off the shelf software applications. In addition, 50 percent of respondents cited the value of custom-developed applications in preserving employee and customer service excellence.

A notable finding from the study was the onset of cloud for businesses looking to modernize their processes. Forrester Consulting deems application platforms as being a viable choice for businesses that harness the cloud for rapid acceleration. When asked why development teams had chosen a cloud environment, the top response was that it was the fastest way to get a project done and deployed to meet unique business demands.

“Appian’s BPM-based Application Platform helps development teams meet the requirements of 21-Century business,” said Matt Calkins, CEO and President of Appian. “The result is more rapid delivery of innovative functionality that drives growth, empowers employees, and engages customers.”

Key characteristics of these platforms discussed in the study include:
1. Quick deployment of work environments as needed for development, testing, and production
2. Visual, model-based, and automated tooling to speed all aspects of application development
3. Availability of cloud and on-premise deployments
4. Compatibility with multiple app types (web and mobile) to eliminate need for business-siloed apps

*Sources & References:
Appian