I have heard people complaints that innovation is ruthless because of the way it completely wipes out an existing order and replaces it with a new one. This is better known as Disruption in the Tech world!
So I urge you to reflect on these 4 activities that were pretty much the norm a few years ago, all of which hs now been affected by innovation:
1. Use of Physical Travel Agents
Owning a Travel Agency was quite a lucrative business back in the days. While a few of them still service high level clients, the reality is that more people now buy their tickets online or directly from the airline.
2. Banking
Banking, as we know it, has changed forever. Those who use e-channels, such as ATMs or Internet services, will attest to the fact that, they no longer visit the bank as frequently as before. I know that, quite a number of people still go to the bank, but the trend is changing quickly.
3. Buy or Rent DVD or VCD Players
Once upon a time, there were video clubs in many parts of the country, where you could rent DVDs or VCDs, but today, those video clubs have all disappeared. Yes, people still buy DVDs or CDs for various reasons, but some experts have said that, as the digital switch is achieved and Internet penetration deepens, the activity will be forever gone. Well, only time will tell!!!
4. Paper Calenders & Diaries
This trend was huge back in the days. Companies usually made this a major expense item by ensuring that they roll it out before the year runs out, so, they are handed over to customers and partners in good time. Think about it, when was the last time you received items like this? Your answer, probably, depends on your age and the position you occupy, but one thing is clear. This trend is gradually being phased out.
The goal is not exactly to share these tips for the sake of it. The question you should ask yourself is; how relevant would my enterprise, career or profession be in 5 years from today? This is because the changes ahead would be pretty radical.