Adaptation and Exaptation: The Primacy of Adaptability
Adaptations are traits shaped by natural selection; exaptations are traits co-opted for a new function. The business analogy asks whether an existing capability can serve a new need as conditions change.
THE IDEA
Adaptation and Exaptation
An adaptation is a trait shaped by natural selection for a function. An exaptation is a trait co-opted for a different function; it may previously have served another role or had no adaptive role.
In business, an existing strength can sometimes make change harder if people assume it will remain sufficient. That is a possible source of rigidity, not an inevitable result of being successful. Ask whether a capability still fits the conditions and whether it could be useful elsewhere.
Competition and changes among connected species can alter which traits are advantageous. The analogy to organizations is useful for asking questions, but does not establish that all competition is zero-sum or that every monopoly stagnates.
When to use it
A business facing market disruption: instead of doubling down on legacy strengths, explore how core capabilities can be applied to emerging needs.
Career transition: identify skills that can be exapted to move into a new role or industry.
Product development: repurpose an existing technology for an adjacent market to extend its lifecycle.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Bird Feathers
Structures that preceded powered flight were later used in flight, making feathers a useful example of co-option. Their earlier functions need not be reduced to a single certain origin story. In a business analogy, an internal analytics tool might be repurposed as a customer-facing product.
Kodak vs. Fujifilm
The comparison presents Kodak as struggling with the shift from film and Fujifilm as applying chemical expertise to other fields. It illustrates repurposing capabilities, but this short account does not establish that adaptability alone explains either company’s results.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Where in your life have you relied on a past strength that may be turning into rigidity?
How can you repurpose an existing skill or resource for a new challenge?
What signals suggest your current competitive advantage is being neutralized?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- The Great Mental Models Volume 2 Physics, Chemistry and Biology