Jill Lepore: What the Theory of “Disruptive Innovation” Gets Wrong : The New Yorker

Jill Lepore: What the Theory of “Disruptive Innovation” Gets Wrong : The New Yorker: Christensen’s sources are often dubious and his logic questionable. His single citation for his investigation of the “disruptive transition from mechanical to electronic motor controls,” in which he identifies the Allen-Bradley Company as triumphing over four rivals, is a book called “The Bradley Legacy,” an account published by a foundation established by the company’s founders. This is akin to calling an actor the greatest talent in a generation after interviewing his publicist. “Use theory to help guide data collection,” Christensen advises.