There are multiple versions of IBM mobilefirst platform available. What are the different decision points that need to be considered for choosing a particular IBM mobilefirst version for implementation?
There are only two versions that should be considered at this time: 7.1 and 8.0, and the only reason to choose 7.1 is if you've already invested in a version older than 7.1. The reason I say that is because V8.0 is rearchitected in a number of significant ways that make it more suitable for Cloud deployments and Open development models. Therefore, the cost to migrate from an older version to V8 is somewhat greater than to migrate to 7.1, and 7.1 will continue to support all the latest mobile operating systems. V8 on the other hand has many new features that 7.1 will never have (as you'd expect) If you're looking to play with the technology, go download the free DevKit from https://mobilefirstplatform.ibmcloud.com/.
So bottom line: If this is a new deployment/purchase/etc. then I'd always suggest V8 as the preferred choice. However if you already have an investment in older versions, V8 is still the preferred choice, but migration to V8 may take more time than to migrate to 7.1.
Does that answer your question?