DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES AS THE BASIS OF POST-INDUSTRIAL TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE ERA OF INDUSTRY 4.0: THEIR ESSENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS

The article examines disruptive technologies as a key driver of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0). The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept, focusing on its theoretical foundations and distinguishing it from sustaining and enabling technologies. Disruptive technologies are characterized by their ability to radically transform traditional business models, market structures, and production processes, leading to the formation of new technological cycles. Drawing on key works of C. Christensen and other leading scholars, the article highlights the transformative impact of these technologies, which can foster the emergence of innovative industries, create new markets, and significantly enhance competitive advantage. A critical aspect of the study involves identifying the characteristics of disruptive technologies, including their high novelty, developmental momentum, and potential to influence both industrial ecosystems and broader socio-economic systems. The article underscores the paradox of disruptive technologies: despite their long-term productivity gains, they often face challenges in early implementation stages due to high development costs, risk, and limited immediate profitability. This paradox, known as the “Innovator’s Dilemma,” is illustrated through cases such as Tesla, Amazon Web Services, and Netflix. The authors argue that early identification of disruptive technologies is crucial for developing effective strategies that can mitigate risks and maximize their economic and technological benefits. The role of governments and businesses in fostering favorable regulatory environments and innovation ecosystems is emphasized as a way to promote sustainable development. Moreover, investing in domestic disruptive technologies can enhance national resilience and geopolitical positioning, reducing external dependencies. The article concludes that distinguishing between disruptive and sustaining technologies is essential for strategic decision-making, allowing businesses and governments to adapt effectively to rapid technological shifts and achieve long-term socio-economic stability.