Lens of Diffusion Theory

An example that can easily explain Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation is Tiktok. Tiktok is "a short-form, video-sharing app that allows users to create and share 15-second videos, on any topic." Tiktok was created in 2016, however, it joined with Musical.ly in 2018 so that a more extensive video network could be established. 

I would say that the exploratory phase of Tik Tok took place in the middle of 2019. I think that the pioneers were drawn to this app because it offered new features that were not seen on Musical.ly. Also, Tiktok allows users to interact mainly through video clips and music which can be done on other apps like Instagram and Facebook; however, TikTok was designed for this purpose so audiences were drawn to it. 

Next, I would argue that early adopters emerged around October of 2019. TikTok caught on with the public because it possess a huge library of licensed music, that is conveniently located for users under "sounds." The app is well-organized and not difficult to use. 

The early majority began to use Tik Tok in February of 2020. This is when a few of my friends began to use the app and create their own content. I personally did not understand it so I was reluctant to take part in it. However, when the Corona Virus hit and sent everyone into months of quarantine, TikTok became extremely popular. This is because many people were bored and tired of being trapped in their houses, so they turned to Tiktok to kill time and to also share creative posts since a lot of people were unable to see each other in person. This was a drastic tiping point of TikTok. Had COVID-19 not occurred, Tiktok may not have become as popular as it is today. 

By the time I entered my first year of college in August of 2020, Tiktok had began its saturation period. Every student I talk to has an account and we all bonded over that fact that Tiktok is a great way to procrastinate homework assignments. 

Currently, I believe that Tiktok is still in the saturation period. I think that those not on Tiktok simply are just not interested in it or are confused on how to use it. For example, my parents could care less about such an app because they have no use for it. I also think that older generations view Tiktok as an app for younger age groups.