GoKawiilInside the second ‘productivity paradox’. Today it’s become an article of faith that everything moves faster. Business pundits tell us that we’re living in a VUCA world (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous). These are taken as basic truths that are beyond questioning or reproach. Yet are things actually moving any faster than in earlier eras? The evidence is surprisingly scarce.
Despite the hype, innovation isn’t getting any faster. Here’s why
Why This Matters
The article challenges the widely accepted belief that technological and business change is accelerating, pointing to a 'second productivity paradox' where hype around innovation outpaces measurable economic or productivity gains. This matters because it questions the assumptions behind corporate strategy, investment, and policy decisions that are based on the premise of ever-increasing speed of change.
Key Takeaways
- The idea that the world is moving faster due to technology (often framed as 'VUCA') may be more perception than measurable reality.
- Despite constant hype about rapid innovation, actual evidence of accelerating productivity or change is scarce.
- This mismatch is described as a 'second productivity paradox,' suggesting businesses and policymakers should be cautious about assumptions driving major decisions.
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