The idea is only heresy until it’s proven right.
The classic start-up examples are Uber and Airbnb. The fact that my dictionary just auto-corrected both these names from uncapitalised to capitalised demonstrates how these brands have become mainstream parts of our culture. But, at one point, they were deemed crazy ideas.
The smartphone and geolocation enabled anyone to call a cab. Before Uber, taxi industries around the world were entrenched, expensive markets to play in. Now, anyone could be a driver if they wanted.
Hotels once had the monopoly on “where I stay when I’m away from home”. However, Airbnb provided an efficient and trusted marketplace to help people find vacant rooms, flats, and houses around the world.
20 years ago, no one would’ve thought these sprawling industries could be upended.
The idea is only heresy until it’s proven right.