IMPORTANT
If you run the platform to tight on the tree (The climbing strap) when you descend, the strap can get lower than the platform and the platform starts to fold. So practice your foot technique...if the platform is getting tight, you need to move down just a little at a time and keep the strap oriented in the right place.
Rappel down is easier....
So true.
This is what I do also.
My main tether to the tree runs all the way to the ground as my rappel line anyway (and safety descent if my platform gives way).
When up in the tree, the line is just loosely coiled on the platform.