Identification, classification, and prioritization of risks associated with a disruptive technology process

Disruptive technology (DT) is an emerging technology whose arrival in the marketplace signifies the eventual displacement of the existing dominant technology. Identifying and assessing the risks associated with the various phases of a DT process is one of the key challenges a firm developing the technology might encounter. This paper identifies, classifies, and prioritizes a set of possible risks associated with different phases of a DT process. The paper presents ideas that differ from traditional risk assessment for new product development in that DT occurs at a different pace. These results can be used to develop a technology as well as a risk mitigation strategy.