The introduction of efficiency-boosting winglets on aircraft at Southwest Airlines, and the adoption of automatic mail-sorting machines by the U.S. Postal Service are examples of:
A) reverse innovation.
B) process change.
C) technology change.
D) product change.
E) disruptive innovation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The introduction of winglets and automatic mail-sorting machines both represent changes in technology, which is the focus of option C. Reverse innovation (option A) refers to innovations created in emerging markets that are later adopted in developed countries, which is not the case here. Process change (option B) refers to changes in the way work is completed, such as implementing new procedures or reorganizing work flows. This is not the main focus of either of the examples given. Product change (option D) refers to changes in the actual product being produced, which is not the case here either. Finally, disruptive innovation (option E) refers to innovations that create a new market and value network, often disrupting existing markets. This is also not the focus of the examples provided.

The Introduction of Efficiency-Boosting Winglets on Aircraft at Southwest Airlines