How Do You Spell LATE ADOPTER?

1. A "late adopter" refers to an individual, organization, or demographic group that shows a delay or reluctance in embracing or incorporating new technologies, products, or ideas compared to others in society. This term is often used in the context of the adoption curve, which illustrates the diffusion of innovations across a population.

   Late adopters generally demonstrate a cautious approach when it comes to incorporating new advancements. They prefer to observe and analyze the experiences of early adopters before committing to change, thereby avoiding potential risks or drawbacks. Late adopters often exhibit a conservative mindset and may require more convincing evidence of the benefits and stability of a new concept before embracing it fully.

   Their hesitancy towards adoption can stem from various factors, such as a preference for familiar practices, resistance to change, or limited access to information and resources. However, it is important to note that being a late adopter does not imply resistance to change altogether, but rather a more methodical and measured approach.

   Late adopters play a crucial role in the diffusion of innovation, as their eventual adoption can mark the point where an innovation reaches mainstream acceptance. They provide a critical perspective on the long-term viability and impact of new technologies, as their delayed implementation helps expose any deficiencies or areas for improvement that early adopters may overlook.

   In summary, a late adopter refers to an individual or group that demonstrates a deliberate delay in embracing new technologies or ideas, favoring a cautious approach in adopting innovations compared to their peers.

Common Misspellings for LATE ADOPTER

The etymology of the term "late adopter" is rooted in the field of technology diffusion. The term was popularized by Everett M. Rogers in his book "Diffusion of Innovations" published in 1962. Rogers classified individuals into categories based on the time it takes them to adopt new ideas or technologies.

The word "late" in "late adopter" simply means occurring toward the end or after the expected or usual time, whereas "adopter" refers to a person who embraces or begins using a new idea, practice, or technology. Hence, a "late adopter" is someone who adopts a new idea, practice, or technology later than others in the same social group or context.

The term has since become widely used beyond just technology diffusion and is often employed to describe individuals or groups who are slower to adopt any new idea, practice, or innovation, not limited to technology alone.