Guillermo “Will” Espinola
As technology advances, the concept of disruption has become a buzzword in the business world. But what does it really mean to disrupt an industry, and how can entrepreneurs identify opportunities for disruption? In a recent conversation, Guillermo Espinola, a software developer and entrepreneur, sheds light on the importance of understanding before disrupting and shares a real-life example of how his team navigated disruption in the gym space.
What is meant by disruption?
Espinola defines disruption as a deep change in an area or an industry. However, he emphasizes that the key to disruption is not simply the change itself, but how it is achieved. He notes that industries are not monolithic, and there are often parts that may appear immovable but can be shifted with the right approach.
Understanding the Purpose
Espinola and his team approach disruption by understanding the purpose behind it, by looking for ways to align with and goals. For example, when working with a customer in the gym industry, Espinola's team did not immediately jump to creating an "Uber for gyms." Instead, they sought to understand the customer's specific needs and pain points within the industry. By asking questions and delving deeper, they discovered an opportunity to improve engagement with gym members.
The Future of Disruption
Looking to the future, Espinola believes that disruption will continue to play a significant role in shaping industries. He notes that as technology continues to advance, there will always be opportunities to improve and innovate.
Espinola's insights remind us that disruption is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Rather, it requires a deep understanding of the industry and an approach that aligns with its underlying goals. By questioning our assumptions we can create meaningful change and truly disrupt industries for the better.
