Innovation
Diffusion Curve Reflection
The Diffusion Curve activity is designed to encourage reflection and discussion on the theory of the diffusion of innovations. By utilizing the fundamental principles of the diffusion curve, the activity prompts participants to consider which category they fall into - innovator, early adopter, early majority, late majority, or laggard - in various aspects of their lives. Additionally, the activity can be expanded to include an analysis of the organizations or companies that participants are affiliated with.
Workshop steps
Place tape on the floor to create a large diffusion curve model. Clearly label the various categories within the curve: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards.
Start with a quick overview of the diffusion curve of innovation theory (see below). Use a slide or whiteboard to display the model and discuss each category briefly. Remember, this introduction is just to help participants reflect on the concept. The Diffusion of Innovations theory explains the spread of new ideas and technology across cultures. It focuses on how innovations are communicated among members of a social system over time. There's a critical mass point where adoption takes off. The adopter categories include innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. (Wikipedia)
Request participants to spend a few minutes pondering over these questions: 1. Identify the work/life aspects where you've been an innovator. 2. Recognize the work/life aspects where you've been an early adopter. 3. Determine the work/life aspects where you've been part of the early majority. 4. Pinpoint the work/life aspects where you've been part of the late majority. 5. Figure out the work/life aspects where you've been a laggard.
Take a few minutes to think, then form pairs among the participants. Together, walk through the diffusion curve in any order, ensuring you cover each category. At each category, both partners should briefly share their individual answers for that specific category.
Once pairs have completed the diffusion curve process, gather the entire group and encourage impromptu thoughts and observations.
Consider using these additional questions to encourage more diverse learning: 1. In a personal context, where do I see myself on the diffusion curve? 2. In a professional context, where do I see myself on the diffusion curve? 3. Where do I see my company/organization on the diffusion curve? 4. Where do I think my company/organization would place itself on the diffusion curve? 5. Where do I think my company should ideally be on the diffusion curve? To make this activity more engaging, have participants physically stand on the curve in the category that corresponds to their answer for each question. Then, ask a few participants to share their reasoning behind their choices and briefly discuss their thoughts.
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