Innovation is often hailed as the driving force of progress, but it’s maintenance that truly keeps society running. The fixation on innovation, particularly in the technology sector, neglects the importance of maintaining and improving existing systems. This ‘innovation-centric’ perspective tends to undervalue the labour that goes into maintaining the status quo.
Maintenance work, from road repairs to software updates, ensures the functionality of infrastructure and technology. Yet, it is often overlooked in favour of new developments, despite being crucial to societal well-being and economic stability. Not only does maintenance work prevent the collapse of systems, but it also provides numerous jobs, contributing to economic growth.
The technology industry’s obsession with innovation often leads to a ‘throwaway culture’, where products and systems are discarded instead of repaired or upgraded. This not only contributes to environmental issues, but also overlooks the potential benefits of maintaining and improving existing systems.
The push for innovation also tends to ignore the social implications. Many so-called ‘innovative’ technologies, like self-driving cars or drones, could lead to job losses in traditional sectors.
In conclusion, while innovation is important, it should not overshadow the essential role of maintenance in keeping society functioning smoothly. Balancing the pursuit of new developments with the need to maintain and improve existing systems is key to sustainable progress.
Go to source article: https://aeon.co/essays/innovation-is-overvalued-maintenance-often-matters-more