Spreading an innovation in a team: the role of relays
Why does an AI tool adopted by two people not reach the rest of the team? Diffusion theory offers leads.
The classic frame
Everett Rogers (2003, Diffusion of Innovations, Free Press) describes adoption as a social process in which perceived advantage, compatibility and trialability matter as much as technical quality.
Appropriation at work
Paul Leonardi (2011, MIS Quarterly) shows in fieldwork that teams change both routines and technology use; adoption is not yes-or-no.
The nuance
Relays need not be the most tech-savvy; they are colleagues seen as credible on the job. (our executive and employee training programmes)
The limit of common practice
Choosing ambassadors solely for their enthusiasm for the tool.
A practical check in Zurich
Identify two colleagues often consulted on the work, have them test the tool on a real task and present results. Measure new regular users over a month. To go further: explore the Leading AI Adoption in Your Team training in Zurich, or browse our executive and employee training programmes in Switzerland.
In pictures: Leading AI Adoption in Your Team in Zurich
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