Platform Engineering Maturity Model with Stefan Daugaard Poulsen | The Shortcu.tt Podcast episode 12
In this episode, Stefan, currently a Solutions Architect at Eficode, walks us through the Platform Engineering Maturity Model, a framework published by CNCF that guides platform teams int different stages of maturity. Find out why it matters, and how your platform teams can use it to drive real impact in your organization.Timestamps & Highlights[00:01:57] Platform Engineering “Beetlejuice”Stefan explains his deep involvement in platform engineering and his role in the Cloud Native Platforms Working Group[00:02:34] Why a Maturity Model?The team discusses the origins of the Platform Maturity Model, its purpose as a framework for honest self-assessment, and how it’s more about product thinking than technology.[00:06:21] Five Aspects of MaturityStefan breaks down the five key aspects: Investment, Adoption, Interface, Operations, and Measurement—each a lens for reflection, not a checklist[00:10:17] The Four LevelsThe maturity model’s levels—Provisional, Operational, Scaling, Optimization—are explained, emphasizing that most organizations are a mix, and that’s normal[00:12:39] Using the Model in PracticeDiscussion on how to use the model for strategic conversations, prioritizing aspects, and making trade-offs rather than chasing perfect scores[00:16:36] The Critical Role of InvestmentWhy investment is often the precursor to maturity in other areas, and how demonstrating value helps secure buy-in[00:18:24] Aligning Platform Outcomes with Business GoalsHow platform teams can connect their work to business outcomes, reduce cognitive load, and win over stakeholders[00:22:14] Build vs. Buy and the Thinnest Viable PlatformStefan’s advice: start small, buy or adopt before building, and expand as your needs grow—don’t get lost in the tech rabbit hole[00:26:20] Roadmaps, Prioritization & Product ThinkingThe challenge of prioritizing features, the importance of user feedback, and treating the platform as a product[00:32:22] Community: Start Early, Not LateWhy building community is essential from day one, and how engagement shifts from feedback to contribution as maturity grows[00:35:16] Metrics that MatterTop metrics for platform teams: adoption rate, feature requests, and actionable feedback—not just Dora metrics[00:39:25] Organic vs. Forced AdoptionReal-world stories of platforms that succeed by attracting users rather than mandating adoption, especially in regulated industries[00:44:18] The Reality of Internal CompetitionThe dynamics of teams running their own stacks, executive mandates, and the politics of platform adoption[00:46:13] The Model as a Conversation StarterThe maturity model is a tool for honest discussion, not a rigid scoring system—use it to balance priorities and set realistic roadmaps[00:49:22] Shortcut to SuccessStefan’s practical takeaway:“Never forget: a pot of coffee and a bag of cookies takes you a long way. Go talk to somebody you haven’t talked to for a while or ever, because you need to broaden your community and create awareness about your platform. If you have it, bring some stickers as well.”Resources MentionedCNCF Platform Engineering Maturity ModelConnect With UsStefan Daugaard PoulsenMorten ChristensenMarilag Svennevig
Netherlands