flex-e-bility

Many of us are aware of Rogers' normal curve that describes 2.5% of the population as innovators, 13.5% as early adopters, 34% as early majority, 34% as late majority and 16% as laggards (Rogers, 1995, p.262). Whilst these categories may be useful in terms of providing a common language to discuss the uptake of innovation, the literal acceptance of the normal distribution is dangerous. More useful are the descriptors of the charactersitics of these classifications.

BUT - individual uptake of technology is based on'perception'. Rogers' provides four factors that influence individual likelihood of adoption.

1. Relative advantage: perveived advantage over existing practices, systems.
2. Compatibility: perceieved compatibility with values and beliefs.
3. Trialability: How easy it is to try the innovation in a safe environment.
4. Observability: How easy it is to observe the benefits of the innovation.

Rogers, E. (2005, 5th edition). Diffusion of innovations. New York, Free Press.