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What Digital Technology is Killing

The digital age has ushered in significant transformations, rendering several technologies obsolete while simultaneously revolutionizing others. This infographic video from Eric Qualman lists almost 50 different technologies that are now obsolete or transformed by digital media.

Research for Eric’s newest book, Digital Leader, spurred this list.

  • Wrist Watches: Once essential for timekeeping, wristwatches have become more of a fashion statement or a niche tool for swimmers, overshadowed by smartphones and smartwatches favored by younger generations.
  • Paperbacks: The tactile pleasure of flipping through a book is now rivaled by the convenience of e-readers like Kindle, which offer a vast library at your fingertips.
  • Traditional Homework: Platforms like Khan Academy have transformed homework, shifting lectures online and turning classrooms into interactive learning environments.
  • Newspapers: Digital news platforms have largely supplanted physical newspapers, offering real-time updates and a wider range of viewpoints.
  • Car Keys: Modern vehicles are increasingly adopting keyless start systems, making traditional car keys a thing of the past.
  • College Backpacks: Tablets and cloud storage are replacing heavy textbooks, allowing students to access materials and notes online.
  • DVDs: Streaming services have made physical DVDs obsolete, providing instant access to a vast array of content.
  • Instruction Manuals: “How To” videos online have replaced bulky manuals, providing clearer, step-by-step visual guidance.
  • Corked Wine: Screw tops offer better preservation and convenience, although they lack the traditional flair of corked bottles.
  • Offline Voting: The concept of online voting promises to make the process more accessible and efficient, though it’s not yet widely implemented.
  • Cash: Mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular, making cash transactions less common.
  • Desktop Computers: Laptops, tablets, and smartphones offer more mobility and have decreased the reliance on stationary desktops.
  • Paper Shredders: Digital documentation and secure online storage are reducing the need for physical document destruction.
  • Post Offices: Email and online messaging services have significantly reduced the volume of traditional mail.
  • 2D: Three-dimensional technology and virtual reality are creating more immersive viewing experiences.
  • Boring Airplanes: In-flight WiFi is transforming air travel, offering entertainment and connectivity to passengers.
  • Paper Resumes: Online platforms like LinkedIn are becoming the standard for professional networking and job searching.
  • Blind Dates: Online profiles and social networks have taken much of the mystery out of meeting new people.
  • Broadcast TV: Streaming platforms are leading the way in entertainment, providing content on demand.
  • Education Inequality: Online resources aim to bridge the educational divide, though access to technology remains a barrier for some.
  • Clipping Coupons: Digital coupons and apps like Groupon are modernizing the way consumers find deals.
  • Hotel Internet Fees: The trend is towards free connectivity, mirroring the decline of long-distance charges.
  • Checkbooks: Online banking and payment platforms like PayPal are rendering traditional checkbooks obsolete.
  • Face-to-Face: Digital communication has reduced in-person interactions, impacting interpersonal communication skills.
  • Credit Cards: Direct transactions through apps and websites are challenging traditional payment methods.
  • MTV: Platforms like YouTube have become the new launching pads for music careers.
  • Alarm Clocks: Smartphones now serve as multi-functional devices, including waking us up.
  • Terrestrial Radio: Satellite and internet radio are providing personalized music experiences.
  • Greeting Cards: Digital greetings are becoming more prevalent as society moves towards sustainability.
  • Big Box Stores: Online shopping offers convenience and better prices, impacting traditional retail models.
  • Gossip: Social media has transformed how information is shared, though the fundamental human behavior persists.
  • Tollbooth Operators: Automated toll collection systems are improving traffic flow and efficiency.
  • Leaders: The digital era requires new leadership skills, focusing on digital literacy and online communication.
  • Channel Surfing: On-demand streaming allows viewers to choose what to watch without flipping through channels.
  • Movie Phone Times: Online listings have made checking movie times more convenient.
  • Armored Cars: As cash usage declines, the need for armored transportation is diminishing.
  • Airline Gate Agents: Self-service kiosks and online check-in are streamlining the boarding process.
  • Mail Order Catalogs: E-commerce has largely replaced catalog shopping with a more interactive and immediate experience.
  • Expert Movie Critiques: Crowdsourced reviews are providing a broader range of opinions than traditional critics.
  • 411: Online directories and search engines have made telephone information services redundant.
  • Gas Stations: Electric vehicles and alternative energy sources are beginning to challenge traditional fueling stations.
  • Smartless Phones: The shift towards smartphones has rendered basic mobile phones nearly obsolete.
  • Memo Pads: Digital notes and reminders on smartphones and computers are replacing

Douglas Karr

Douglas Karr is CMO of OpenINSIGHTS and the founder of the Martech Zone. Douglas has helped dozens of successful MarTech startups, has assisted in the due diligence of over $5 bil in Martech acquisitions and investments, and continues to assist companies in implementing and automating their sales and marketing strategies. Douglas is an internationally recognized digital transformation and MarTech expert and speaker. Douglas is also a published author of a Dummie's guide and a business leadership book.

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