Diffusion of Innovations Theory - Definition
Written by Jason Gordon
Updated at December 17th, 2020
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What is the Diffusion Of Innovations Theory?
The diffusion of innovations theory is a theory that seeks to explain the rate (speed) at which new information and technology spread throughout a given population or society. Different populations and societies adopt new information at different rates, there are factors that influence the level of adoption of each society.
Everett Rogers, an American theorist, and sociologist popularized the diffusion of innovations theory in 1962. There are four major elements that are responsible for the diffusion of innovations, new technological advancements, and ideas. These elements are;
- The innovation itself (its type or nature)
- The communication channels available to spread the innovation
- The time
- The available social structure.
In addition to the above element, there are other factors that affect the diffusion of innovation throughout a population. These include the mix of the population, the education level of the population, the rate of industrialization in the population, and cultural beliefs.
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