Case | HBS Case Collection | 1999 (Revised from original 1998 version)

Disruptive Technology a Heartbeat Away: Ecton, Inc.

by Clayton M. Christensen and Edward G Cape

Abstract

Describes an innovating start-up company with a disruptive technology to the large, expensive echocardiography machines that leading cardiologists use to create images of heart functions for diagnostic purposes. Ecton's machine is small, cheap, portable, and can't create images as clear as those that large, expensive instruments can make. The entrepreneur is searching for a market for his product, and wonders whether he should sell out or try to build a successful commercial organization.

Keywords: Business Startups; Disruption; Machinery and Machining; Entrepreneurship; Innovation and Invention; Marketing; Product; Commercialization; Technology; Medical Devices and Supplies Industry;

Citation:

Christensen, Clayton M., and Edward G Cape. "Disruptive Technology a Heartbeat Away: Ecton, Inc." Harvard Business School Case 699-018, March 1999. (Revised from original December 1998 version.)