We often think of innovation as progress—but what happens when that innovation comes with strings attached?

Recently, a widely used open-source platform, Nextcloud, lost key functionality when operating system-level security changes cut off their ability to support a longstanding file-upload feature. This wasn’t due to a bug or oversight on their part—it was a ripple effect from dependency on an external platform making an unexpected change.

This story highlights something rarely discussed outside of technical circles: the fragility that can arise from platform dependencies.

As a business leader, you don’t need to know how to write code to be affected by these kinds of issues. Technical dependencies can:

• Disrupt customer-facing features overnight
• Delay development due to unexpected compatibility issues
• Force expensive rewrites or workarounds
• Undermine long-term product stability and scalability

So what can you do to build resilience into your technology strategy?

Here are a few practical actions:

• Encourage modular architecture: Designing software in a component-based way makes it easier to swap out dependencies if needed.
• Invest in open technologies: Open-source tools and standards offer transparency and community support that reduce the chances of sudden lockout.
• Perform regular tech audits: Understand where your digital products rely on third-party libraries, SDKs or APIs—and assess their health and future.
• Include technical due diligence in strategic planning: Before committing to a platform or vendor, ask your technical team about risks and alternatives.

The goal isn’t to avoid dependencies altogether—that’s nearly impossible. But the difference between a brittle product and a robust one often comes down to knowing where the risks are and planning accordingly.

If you’re wondering whether your current product, app or platform is carrying hidden risks—or you’re planning something new and want to get it right from day one—I’d be happy to chat.

Get in touch if you’d like to discuss how to design for resilience in your digital products.