Technology Roles and Paths of Influence in an Ecosystem Model of Technology Evolution

Publication Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2007

Abstract

We propose a new conceptual model for understanding technology evolution that highlights dynamic and highly interdependent relationships among multiple technologies. We argue that, instead of considering technologies in isolation, technology evolution is best viewed as a dynamic system or ecosystem that includes a variety of interrelated technologies. By considering the interdependent nature of technology evolution, we identify three roles that technologies play within a technology ecosystem. These roles are components, products and applications, and support and infrastructure. Technologies within an ecosystem interact through these roles and impact each others’ evolution. We also classify types of interactions between technology roles, which we term paths of influence. We demonstrate the use of our proposed model through examples of wireless networking (Wi-Fi) technologies and a business mini-case on the digital music industry.

Keywords

Ecological perspective, Environmental analysis, Innovations, Paths of influence, Technology analysis, Technology ecosystem, Technology evolution, Technology roles

Discipline

Computer Sciences | Management Information Systems

Research Areas

Information Systems and Management

Publication

Information Technology and Management

Volume

8

Issue

2

First Page

185

Last Page

202

ISSN

1385-951X

Identifier

10.1007/s10799-007-0012-z

Publisher

Springer Verlag

Additional URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10799-007-0012-z

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