Third platform

Gartner claimed that these interdependent trends were "transforming the way people and businesses relate to technology" and have since provided a number of reports on the topic.

[9] In January 2016 The Economist offered the following analysis: "The third platform is based on the online computing "cloud" and its interaction with all manner of devices, including wirelessly connected ones such as smartphones, machinery and sensors (known collectively as the "internet of things").

A company representative on the road or working from home will have instant access to data through his or her mobile device with this third platform whenever and wherever they need it.

The tablet would take the place of textbooks and paper used in assignments, but more importantly, the student will have access to a virtual classroom at additional times.

Variety means that many forms of data are collected, with formats ranging from audio and video to client log files and Tweets.

[11] The Internet of Things is the network of connected devices that enable computer systems to monitor and control aspects of the physical environment.

It has applications in personal and home environments, smart cities, factory automation, transport, and many other areas.

The incorporation of the Internet of Things in the third platform gives enterprises the ability to interact with these systems and use these applications.