Why Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today: Incentives and the Timing of New Product Introduction

Using related statistical studies and specific industry examples, William Putsis, Jr. illustrates how incentives for delaying the introduction of a new technology has played a major role in the development of certain consumer electronics markets over the past 25 years. Specifically, the introduction of a new product which incorporates some new technology can often be delayed until the firm's need for growth exceeds the fear of cannibalizing the firm's current product line. This concern is viewed as only one of many concerns that may delay or speed a new technology to market.