"Disrupt or Be Disrupted:  Understanding the Patterns of Business Disruption is a Key to Any Business Success "Disrupt or Be Disrupted: Understanding the Patterns of Business Disruption is a Key to Any Business Success
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Business disruption is like the wild and unpredictable nature of love. Just as love can shake us to our core and turn our world upside down, business disruption has the power to upend established industries and challenge the status quo. It can be exhilarating and liberating, a force of nature that forces us to adapt and innovate in order to survive. 

"Business disruption” is the idea that new technologies, processes, or business models can disrupt established industries and businesses, leading to significant changes in the market. The theory was first popularized by Clayton Christensen in his book 'The Innovator's Dilemma,' which examined how disruptive innovations could cause established companies to fail. 

There are several patterns that have been identified in his book as common in the world of business and innovation. Here are some of the patterns you need to understand them and apply in your start-up or business.

Disruptive innovation: This occurs when a new product or service is introduced that is cheaper, simpler, and more convenient than existing options. The new product/service may initially be seen as inferior, but eventually, it gains popularity and overtakes the existing options.

> Creative destruction: This refers to the process by which new innovations replace existing technologies, causing them to become obsolete. The process of creative destruction can be difficult for established companies, as they may struggle to adapt to the changes.

> Platform disruption: This occurs when a new platform, such as a website or mobile app, disrupts an existing industry by providing a new way for consumers to access products or services.

> Business model disruption: This occurs when a new business model is introduced that fundamentally changes the way products or services are delivered. For example, the subscription-based model used by companies like Netflix and Spotify has disrupted the traditional model of purchasing movies or music.

> Market disruption: This occurs when a new product or service enters the market and changes the dynamics of the industry. This can happen when a new entrant disrupts the existing market leaders, or when a new market emerges altogether.

There are many examples of products and services that have experienced disruption patterns. Here are a few notable examples you need to be aware of: 

1. Smartphones: Smartphones have disrupted a number of industries, including traditional cameras, alarm clocks, and GPS devices. With the rise of mobile apps and increased functionality, smartphones have become the primary device for many consumers. One of a very interesting event is how Nokia failed to adopt touch screen technology and let Apple company with iPhone to take over their market. 

2. Streaming Services: Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have disrupted the traditional cable TV industry by providing an alternative way for consumers to access content. With affordable monthly subscriptions, a wide range of programming, and the ability to watch on demand, these services have become extremely popular. For example, DS TV and Azam Tv is an interesting study how they transformed traditional television into cable business. 

3. Ride-sharing Services: Companies like Uber and Lyft have disrupted the taxi industry by providing a more convenient and affordable alternative. With the ability to hail a ride from a mobile app and transparent pricing, ride-sharing has become a popular choice for many consumers. For example, Bolt company in Tanzania replaced tradition taxes.

4. E-commerce: Online shopping has disrupted traditional brick-and-mortar retail stores by providing a more convenient and accessible way for consumers to purchase products. With the rise of Amazon and other e-commerce giants like Ali baba in China , traditional retail stores have struggled to compete.

5. Electric Vehicles: Electric vehicles have disrupted the traditional automotive industry by providing a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative. With increased range and improved charging infrastructure, electric vehicles are becoming a more viable option for many consumers. For example Tesla Cars are good example of the disruption business which forces traditional car companies to adopt and produce.

Overall, Like any great romance, business disruption can be full of ups and downs, but those who embrace it with an open heart and a willingness to take risks are often rewarded with success beyond their wildest dreams. So let us embrace the passion and unpredictability of business disruption, for it is through these tumultuous times that we grow, evolve, and thrive.

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M.k Butinini
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M.k Butinini

Focus on the Financial Market and Business

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