How Platform Engineering is Transforming DevOps: Lessons from the DORA 2024 Report
I recently came across the DORA Accelerate State of DevOps 2024 report, and it reinforced something I’ve been thinking about for a while: platform engineering is not just a buzzword — it’s a game-changer. But like any transformation, it comes with its share of challenges. Here’s my take on the report’s findings and what they mean for DevOps teams.
The Promise of Platform Engineering
At its core, platform engineering is about enabling developers to focus on what they do best: creating business value through code. By creating internal platforms that streamline tasks like application provisioning, testing, and deployment, platform teams reduce the friction that slows down software delivery.
The benefits are clear. Developers who use internal platforms report noticeable gains in productivity because self-service workflows allow them to work independently, eliminating long wait times. Team collaboration also improves significantly, as platforms create standardized workflows that help engineers work more efficiently. At an organizational level, platform engineering supports faster delivery and better alignment with business goals, ultimately leading to better outcomes across the board.
The Challenges Platforms Face
While the potential of platform engineering is evident, the DORA 2024 report also highlights some unexpected downsides. One of the most surprising findings is a decline in throughput, as organizations experience slower software delivery due to the added complexity of platform systems. The very mechanisms meant to streamline workflows can sometimes introduce unnecessary delays through rigid structures and excessive handoffs.
Change stability also takes a hit, with platforms introducing new dependencies that teams must navigate. When platforms aren’t flexible enough to accommodate specific team needs, they can create more problems than they solve. Additionally, the J-curve effect is a recurring theme — many teams see initial gains, only to hit a plateau or even regress before stabilizing. This is a natural part of the process, but it requires patience and ongoing iteration to sustain long-term success.
Key Lessons for Platform Success
To fully realize the benefits of platform engineering, organizations need to find the right balance between structure and flexibility. A platform should be designed to reduce complexity rather than add to it, avoiding unnecessary bottlenecks and streamlining essential processes. Instead of forcing developers into a rigid workflow, platforms should allow for adaptability, giving teams the freedom to bypass constraints when needed.
Feedback from developers is crucial. A platform is only as strong as its adoption, and teams need to feel that it actually helps them do their work rather than slowing them down. Collecting input continuously ensures that the platform evolves to meet real-world needs rather than theoretical ones. Most importantly, platforms should foster independence. The best platforms enable developers to own their workflows without excessive reliance on external support teams.
The Road Ahead for Platform Engineering
The DORA 2024 report underscores that platform engineering is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but when implemented thoughtfully, it becomes a powerful enabler of high-performing teams. The key is to treat platform engineering as an evolving practice rather than a fixed framework. Early wins are just the beginning — sustained success depends on iterative refinement and a commitment to user-centric design.
Organizations that invest in well-structured, adaptable platforms will gain a serious competitive advantage. But as the DORA report reminds us, technology alone is not enough. The real success of platform engineering lies in how we build and adapt it to empower teams, making their work easier, faster, and more effective.
