What are the benefits of adopting new technology relatively late? Despite being one of the first people to evaluate new technologies, Mark Heath attests that late adoption is much more practical. For example, he finds that many products he evaluates early on are missing a few features; by picking them up later down the line, it’s more likely that the features he wants have been implemented. Similarly, new products often stimulate reactions from competitors, widening the market and providing the customer with more options. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here