Clayton Christensen wrote a book in 1997 that created an earthquake in the global business world. His book, The Innovator’s Dilemma describes “disruptive technology” in the marketplace that creates a firestorm of innovation so quickly, that renders known, present technologies is obsolete. It’s the process of a product or service that takes root in simple applications at the bottom of the market and through relentless movement upward, suddenly displaces established competitors.
Examples of disruptive technology is described in these terms to these products: vinyl records were suddenly replaced by 8 track tapes that were replaced by cassettes that were replaced by cd’s that were replaced by iPods. What happened to the Walkman? Look at MP3 players and the iPod. What happened to 35mm film? Look at digital cameras. Kodak thought digital photography was a passing fad but when digital hit the marketplace and stayed and grew, it displaced 35mm film developing with instant photos through digital technology.
How does disruptive technology affect human resources staffing?