On-demand

Relating to or providing a product, service, or access that is available whenever the consumer requests it. This often applies to media like movies and TV shows, but also extends to other services such as ride-sharing, food delivery, and cloud computing resources. The key characteristic of 'on-demand' is its availability at the user's initiative, offering a high degree of control and convenience. It typically contrasts with scheduled programming or predetermined access times, emphasizing immediate accessibility and user-driven consumption or utilization. This model leverages technology to personalize and cater to individual needs in real time.

On-demand meaning with examples

• With on-demand streaming services, families now have unparalleled control over their viewing experience. They can watch movies and TV shows anytime, anywhere, pausing and resuming at their leisure. This flexibility surpasses traditional television schedules, allowing for personalized entertainment tailored to individual preferences and schedules. This model shifts the control to the viewer.
• The rise of on-demand food delivery platforms has revolutionized the restaurant industry. Consumers can browse menus from various restaurants, place orders, and have meals delivered quickly, eliminating the need to cook or visit the restaurant. This service caters to busy lifestyles and offers a diverse selection of cuisines, providing convenience with instant access.
• Modern businesses utilize on-demand cloud computing for scalable resource allocation. They can instantly provision servers, storage, and other computing resources, avoiding the need for significant upfront investments in physical infrastructure. This agility allows companies to rapidly adapt to changing business needs and efficiently manage their IT budgets based on immediate demands.
• Ride-sharing services are an excellent example of on-demand transportation. Users request a ride through an app, and a driver is dispatched to their location almost immediately. This eliminates the need to hail a cab or wait for public transport, offering unparalleled convenience for city travel. It is a personalized and fast transportation solution.