The next big thing will start out looking like a toy. This concept, popularized by Clay Christensen's "disruptive technology" theory, highlights the tendency for groundbreaking innovations to be dismissed as mere toys in their early stages. Disruptive technologies often undershoot user needs upon their initial launch, leading many to underestimate their potential. However, by examining products as processes, we can distinguish between toys that remain insignificant and toys that have the potential to disrupt entire industries.

The next big thing will start out looking like a toy. This concept, popularized by Clay Christensen's "disruptive technology" theory, highlights the tendency for groundbreaking innovations to be dismissed as mere toys in their early stages. Disruptive technologies often undershoot user needs upon their initial launch, leading many to underestimate their potential. However, by examining products as processes, we can distinguish between toys that remain insignificant and toys that have the potential to disrupt entire industries.

To truly understand the disruptive potential of a toy-like product, one must consider external forces that are shaping the technological landscape. Factors such as the decreasing cost of microchips, the widespread availability of bandwidth, and the increasing intelligence of mobile devices contribute to the rise of disruptive technologies. These external forces provide a fertile ground for innovation and allow new products to ride the wave of utility curve improvement.

An excellent example of a disruptive technology that has harnessed the power of external forces is Wikipedia. While it may appear as a simple online encyclopedia, it is, in fact, a dynamic process. Every day, Wikipedia is bombarded with edits from spammers, vandals, and individuals with questionable intentions. However, every day, the dedicated community of contributors works tirelessly to improve the platform at an accelerated rate. This process of constant improvement has allowed Wikipedia to meet and surpass user needs for encyclopedic information. Despite its humble beginnings, Wikipedia has become an invaluable resource, demonstrating the power of disruptive technologies that can adapt and improve over time.

In contrast, startups that focus on sustaining technologies are unlikely to make waves in the future. Sustaining technologies are those that aim to improve existing products or processes without fundamentally changing the status quo. While these innovations may be valuable in their own right, they lack the potential to disrupt industries and become the next big thing. The technologies that will dominate the top lists in 2020 and beyond are the ones that are often dismissed as toys. These seemingly insignificant toys have the ability to revolutionize entire industries, catching incumbents off guard.

Now, let's shift our focus to the world of productivity apps. In this fast-paced era, there is a constant demand for tools that can enhance efficiency and streamline workflows. One emerging trend in the productivity app space is the rise of clipping tools. These tools allow users to save and organize important information from various sources, creating a digital library of knowledge. One such app that has gained significant attention is Glasp.

Glasp takes the concept of clipping to the next level by creating a social network-like experience around it. Users can not only save and organize their learnings but also share them with others, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge growth. This unique approach sets Glasp apart from other productivity apps and has generated considerable hype in the tech community.

Incorporating social elements into productivity apps can have profound effects on user engagement and knowledge sharing. By creating a platform where users can connect and exchange valuable insights, Glasp taps into the power of collective intelligence. This collaborative approach not only enhances individual productivity but also contributes to the growth of a collective note library, benefiting the entire community.

As we look towards the future of productivity apps and disruptive technologies, it becomes crucial to identify actionable steps that individuals and businesses can take to stay ahead. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to consider:

1. Embrace the "toy" mindset: Don't dismiss seemingly insignificant innovations as mere toys. Instead, view them as potential disruptors that may revolutionize your industry. By keeping an open mind and exploring the possibilities, you can position yourself to leverage these emerging technologies to your advantage.

2. Harness the power of external forces: Stay informed about the external forces shaping the technological landscape. Pay attention to trends such as the decreasing cost of microchips, the expanding availability of bandwidth, and the advancements in mobile devices. By understanding these forces, you can identify opportunities to ride the wave of utility curve improvement.

3. Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing: In a world driven by information, collaboration and knowledge sharing are key. Look for productivity apps or platforms that facilitate social interactions and collective intelligence. By connecting with others and exchanging insights, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge that can propel your productivity and innovation.

In conclusion, the next big thing will always start out looking like a toy. Disruptive technologies often go unnoticed by incumbents because they initially undershoot user needs. However, by understanding the potential of products as processes and considering external forces that shape the technological landscape, we can identify the true disruptors. It is essential to embrace emerging technologies, foster collaboration, and stay informed to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving world. So, don't dismiss the toys; they might just be the key to your future success.