Comparing coverage of disruptive change in social and traditional media

Abstract

How do social media differ from traditional media in their coverage of disruptive technological change? We explore how two entrants transforming the personal transportation and accommodation sectors are covered in social and traditional media. Using content analysis, we conclude that these two forms of media differ substantially. Traditional media is focused on how the two entrants affect society and their respective sectors at large, whilst social media instead function as accelerators for the entrants as they receive predominantly positive coverage. Therefore, our findings suggest that the rise of social media may accelerate the growth of disruptive innovations which can, in turn, reduce the window for response.