What’s the difference between DApps and blockchain platforms?

If you are a potential investor in the blockchain space it can be difficult to differentiate between all the companies claiming to be the next ‘disruptor’ of an industry. The conflating of terms like blockchain technology, smart contracts and decentralised applications (DApps) can be confusing for many. Nonetheless, understanding what the project really entails, and whether it will actually be ‘decentralized’ remains a crucial part of any investor due diligence