Aesthetic monoculture, or "sameness," in design can occur due to the widespread use of

specific design tools and software, as well as cultural trends and commercial pressures that
favor certain aesthetics over others. This can positively and negatively impact the
development, accessibility, and overall user experience of the web and mobile app
ecosystems.

Pros of web/app monoculture:

Standardization: Having a dominant platform or technology allows for a common set of

standards and guidelines, making it easier for developers to build and maintain applications
that are compatible across different devices and systems. This results in a more streamlined
and predictable development process, which can save time and resources.

Ease of Use: When a monoculture prevails, users become familiar with a particular
interface, navigation, and functionality, making it easier for them to use and interact with
websites and applications. This results in a more consistent and intuitive user experience,
which can be beneficial for both users and developers.

Wide Reach: Dominant platforms and technologies often have a large user base, making it
easier for developers to reach a wide audience with their applications. This can be especially
valuable for businesses looking to expand their market reach and increase their customer
base.

Support and Resources: Dominant platforms and technologies also have a large community
of developers and users, providing a wealth of resources and support for developers to use
and learn from. This includes documentation, tutorials, forums, and tools that can help
developers to quickly and easily build and maintain applications.

Cons of web/app monoculture:

Lack of Diversity: When a single platform or technology dominates the market, it can lead to
a lack of diversity in the design and functionality of websites and applications. This can
result in a homogenized user experience, with limited opportunities for creativity and
innovation.

Dependence on a Single Entity: By relying on a single platform or technology, developers

and users can become dependent on the decisions and actions of a single entity, such as a
corporation or organization. This can be especially problematic when the dominant platform
changes its policies, features, or pricing, leading to disruptions or difficulties for developers
and users.

Security Risks: Dominant platforms and technologies can also become targets for cyber-
attacks and security breaches, putting sensitive user data and information at risk. This can
result in a loss of privacy, security, and trust for users and can have significant consequences
for businesses that rely on these platforms.
Exclusion of Alternative Approaches: A web/app monoculture can limit the visibility and
adoption of alternative approaches, such as open-source technologies, niche platforms, and
alternative design styles. This can result in a reduced diversity of ideas and strategies, stifling
creativity and innovation.

In conclusion, a web/app monoculture can provide a more consistent and streamlined user
experience but can also limit diversity and creativity and create dependency and security
risks. It is important to consider both the pros and cons of a dominant platform or
technology and strive for a balance between standardization and diversity in the web and
mobile app ecosystems.