Disruptive innovation

Disruptive innovation is a process in which a product, service, or business model starts by targeting overlooked or underserved segments of the market-often with simpler, more affordable, or more accessible solutions-and eventually moves upmarket to challenge and displace established competitors. The concept, introduced by Clayton Christensen in the mid-1990s, explains how smaller companies with fewer resources can successfully challenge industry giants by transforming expensive or sophisticated offerings into ones that are widely accessible.

Key takeaways

Market transformation

Disruptive innovation fundamentally changes how industries operate by making products or services more affordable and accessible to a broader population.

Starts small, grows big

Disruptive innovations typically begin in niche or underserved markets and are often ignored by incumbents because they initially serve low-margin or low-demand segments.

Not just new technology

Disruption is not solely about breakthrough technology; it requires an enabling technology, an innovative business model, and a value network where partners, suppliers, and distributors also benefit from the new approach.

Displacement of incumbents

As disruptive innovations improve and gain traction, they move upmarket, eventually overtaking established players who may have initially dismissed the innovation as insignificant.

Disruptive innovation renews industries by creating entirely new markets and making previously exclusive products and services widely accessible and affordable. This process fuels entrepreneurship, enabling startups and small businesses to challenge established players and quickly seize market share. As disruption spreads, incumbent companies are compelled to adapt and innovate or risk obsolescence, leading to enhanced products, services, and business models that benefit consumers with greater choice, value, and convenience.

How disruptive innovation works

Identify overlooked markets

Target customers who are underserved or ignored by existing solutions.

Develop an enabling technology or business model

Create a simpler, more affordable, or more convenient offering that meets the needs of these segments.

Gain a foothold

Build a customer base in a niche market, which often has lower margins and less competition.

Improve and scale

Gradually enhance the product or service, moving upmarket to attract mainstream customers and challenge incumbents.

Displace established players

As adoption grows, the disruptive innovation redefines industry standards and can overtake or transform existing leaders.

Frequently asked questions about disruptive innovation?

1) Is every new technology disruptive?

No. Disruptive innovation is distinct from sustaining or incremental innovation. Not all new or even revolutionary technologies are disruptive; true disruption creates new markets or fundamentally changes existing ones by targeting overlooked segments.

2) What are the requirements for disruptive innovation?

Enabling technology, an innovative business model, and a value network that supports the new approach.

3) Why do incumbents often ignore disruptive innovations?

Because they initially serve less profitable or smaller markets and don’t threaten the core business until they improve and scale.