When the latest technology hits store shelves in the form of a new gadget (the very first iPod comes to mind), do you rush out to buy it or do you wait for the next generation? Early adopters of technology tend to purchase the newest gadgets before anyone else has had a chance to review them. Cautious consumers, however, tend to wait for manufacturers to work all the bugs out before they buy their devices.
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The Early Adopters
Without early adopters, companies wouldn’t have the money and research that they need to improve their products. Obviously, these consumers help companies by purchasing the newest (and often most expensive) gadgets.
What do they get in return?
Disadvantages
- First generation products usually have bugs that effect performance
- The newest devices often cost more than those made later
- Since fewer people use these gadgets, early adopters don’t have much support outside of services from the manufacturer
Advantages
- They get to explore the newest technologies
- Early adopters often enjoy telling people about the good and bad points of new devices
- Since they buy products first, they get to influence how later generations will perform
The Cautious Consumers
If you waited a couple of years before buying an iPod or you still haven’t made up your mind about ereaders, then you probably fall into the “cautious consumer” category. That’s a good place for most people. Cautious consumers usually spend less money on high-priced gadgets. When they do spend their money, they get reliable devices that manufacturers and users have already tested.
Really, it comes down to personality (and how much money you have to spend, of course). Are there any disadvantages to living like a cautious consumer?
