Technology Adoption

Do you have a friend who always has the latest gadget or a new phone before you? Do you feel like you're modern and advanced, but that friend is always one step ahead? Well, don't worry; you're not that far behind. It's just that when it comes to technology, there are people more inclined to take risks, while others have little interest in doing so.

In 1962, Everett Rogers introduced the "Diffusion of Innovations theory," which categorizes us into five main groups. The first group is the "Innovators." These individuals are willing to spend a lot of money to acquire early gadgets, even if they don't work perfectly yet. They are the ones who eagerly wait in line for the latest iPhone, and some of them might not even be fully committed to using technology, making up a small percentage, roughly 2.5%. If you're in the medical field, you might find these people testing all the latest machines and discussing them, but they aren't necessarily "influencers." Their primary role is to be the first to try out new technology rather than showing others how to use it.

Next, we have the "Early Adopters," a significant majority comprising around 13.5% of people who like to test and use technology. They don't mind if it's not perfect, as long as it fulfills its intended purpose, because they genuinely want to make practical use of it. These two categories are often referred to as "visionary" individuals since they are trying to understand what the future holds in terms of technology. They are normally used by the manufacturers as influencers because they like to self-expose to events, social media or congresses.

Following them, we have the "Early Majority," accounting for 34% of the population. They are pragmatic and seek technology that works and provides a genuine benefit. They are open to new things but are not necessarily enthusiastic about appearing as trendsetters; they simply want effective and functional solutions.

The last 40% of people consist of "Conservatives," who tend to stick with the same technology for extended periods, and "Laggards," those who are resistant to new technology and may even criticize those who embrace it.

So, where do you fit in this description? It's straightforward: if you have many friends who frequently acquire new gadgets, instruments, or devices, and you make fun of them, you likely belong to the last 40%. If you are often ahead of your friends when it comes to technology, you fall into the "Early Adopters" category. If you have an insatiable appetite for new technology and care little about what others think, then you are an "Innovator."