Crossing the Adoption Chasm

The Adoption Chasm is a familiar metaphor for technology manufacturers and consumers. It is a map of the lifecycle of technology solutions that identifies key phases in technology adoption.
The early adopter phase is a period of rapid technology evolution. The manufacturer and solution provider markets are still shaping up, and leaders have not yet emerged. Adoption is low while many users adopt a conservative, risk-avoidant, wait-and-see approach. The early majority phase begins when the technology has begun to mature. Adoption increases rapidly during this period. The perceived value of the technology is highest during this phase, and the perceived risk diminishes as users and solution providers gain experience. The late majority phase begins when the pace of technology innovation has slowed, and the market begins to become saturated. This phase is characterized by increasing commoditization and a decline in the market value of the technology.
The "chasm" between early adoption and majority adoption is a result of the perceived risk and complexity of deploying technology solutions.

IT organizations who see the benefits of being at the leading edge of technology innovation are willing to assume higher perceived risk and become early adopters. However, the majority of IT organizations take a more conservative approach. These organizations want integrated, scalable, manageable solutions that are easy to deploy and reduce the perceived risk of new technology deployment.

Firefly's approach to accelerating technology adoption focuses on reducing risk and complexity:
  • We work with consumers to help them understand how new technologies fit into their current infrastructure—and how to realize the benefits while avoiding the pitfalls.
  • We work with VARs and SIs to help them rapidly integrate new technologies into their solution portfolio—without compromising their customers' success.
  • We work with manufacturers to help them cut through the marketing and clearly articulate the value of new technologies—to help their customers make informed choices.