Innovation, a cornerstone of societal progress, appears to follow a distinct pattern, as revealed by a new mathematical model. This model, developed by a team of researchers, demonstrates that innovations arise in a predictable way. The team has identified two types of innovators: the ‘exploiters’ who refine and improve existing ideas, and the ‘explorers’ who generate new concepts.
The model shows that a healthy balance between these two types of innovators is crucial for sustained innovation. Too many exploiters can lead to a saturation of ideas, while an excess of explorers can result in a lack of refinement. Interestingly, the model also highlights the importance of the social network in which these innovators operate.
The research, based on a study of mobile phone users, suggests that people with more diverse social networks are more likely to be explorers, generating new ideas. Conversely, those with less diverse networks tend to be exploiters, focusing on refining existing ideas. This discovery could have significant implications for how we understand and foster innovation in the future.
Go to source article: https://www.technologyreview.com/s/603366/mathematical-model-reveals-the-patterns-of-how-innovations-arise/