Emerging Technologies: Applied Frameworks

TRL 1-3 (Research): Lab concept. (Too early for most businesses)
TRL 4-6 (Development): Prototype stage, some testing. (Experiment, pilot)
TRL 7-9 (Deployment): Proven in operation, market-ready. (Integrate, adopt)

Oct 5, 2024

Before you invest big in the next “big thing,” use these two frameworks.

1. Gartner Hype Cycle: Where is it in its lifecycle?

Innovation Trigger: Brand new, lots of buzz, but unproven. (Wait and watch)
Peak of Inflated Expectations: Overhyped, lots of failures. (Avoid! Or experiment cautiously)
Trough of Disillusionment: Reality sets in, interest wanes. (Opportunity for smart movers)
Slope of Enlightenment: Real-world value emerges, best practices develop. (Time to invest strategically)
Plateau of Productivity: Mainstream adoption, proven value. (Adopt if you haven’t yet)

2. Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): How mature is it?

Your Action:

Identify one emerging technology relevant to your business.
Where is it on the Hype Cycle?
What’s its TRL?
Based on this, what’s your adoption strategy (Pioneer, Fast Follower, Late Adopter)?

Golden Rule: Don’t chase every shiny object. Understand its maturity and strategic fit.