Book recommendation
Jobs to be Done: Theory to Practice
Read more
1 min Share:
The Innovator’s Dilemma
What is the Innovator’s Dilemma?
Companies aiming for growth and innovation must stay ahead of disruptive change. But how do you decide which new technology fits your company? That’s the core question behind the innovator’s dilemma.
Harvard professor Clayton Christensen explains in his book *The Innovator’s Dilemma* how even the most successful companies can be blindsided by low-end innovations. These technologies often start small, but can eventually replace market leaders.
Why this book matters
This book is widely acclaimed. Silicon Valley leaders like Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos called it their “bible.” Christensen not only analyses disruptive innovation but also gives practical advice on how to identify and act on it.
He asks critical questions: How do you anticipate your customers’ future needs? How will that impact your product? Should you improve what you have or start something new that might replace your current offering? Christensen gives companies a clear roadmap for tackling these dilemmas.
Relevance for companies in transition
The innovator’s dilemma is more relevant than ever. Companies looking to modernize software or develop new platforms often face this exact dilemma. From our experience at GlobalOrange: innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about vision and agility.
Whether you’re developing a new application or rethinking your current platform, the insights from this book are essential.
How to respond to disruption
Successful companies typically invest in two tracks:
- Continuously improving the current product to stay competitive
- Exploring new propositions that could eventually replace the existing ones
Christensen calls this the “ambidextrous organization”: managing current business and innovation separately but in parallel. It requires a lean, iterative approach to thrive in both areas.
Advice for decision-makers
Product owners, CTOs and founders often wrestle with questions about timing, technology and team setup. Christensen advises setting up innovation initiatives in separate teams—so they’re not hindered by legacy processes.
At GlobalOrange, you can hire a dedicated development team focused on new initiatives—free from the constraints of existing systems.
Start your innovation strategy
Christensen provides the strategic framework. We help you build it. Using our GOdna approach, we develop digital products that are ready for the future. If you’re exploring a new product idea or growth path, our Product Discovery Workshop is a great way to start.
Disruption is inevitable. But with the right mindset and tools, you can lead it—rather than be surprised by it.
Share:
Ready for next level product development?
Let's create a digital product that end users and business stakeholders will love and that is also future-proof, scalable, secure and easy to maintain.