In a recent report from Forbes, a number of CEOs suggest that the best way for blockchain technology to be adopted is through invisibility. By this, they mean that consumers would utilize the growing technology without actually being aware of it.

The argument makes sense from a technical perspective. Few consumers can even describe the physics of their car radios, let alone the technical components of something as complex as the internet. To expect consumer and enterprise adoption to immediately come along with the advanced technical know-how may be too far-reaching for the time being.

What You Can’t See…

The key to adoption invisibility is user experience. The growth of other technologies in the private sector has been led by consumers who are seeking speedy and hassle-free processes. Consumers are normally willing to adopt any technology that improves their experience, saves them time, or provides a previously unavailable service.

Of course, this doesn’t change the fact that most will not understand what they are using, and blockchain technology is no different. Consumers don’t need to grasp the basics of the underlying systems in order to use them. Instead, adoption should effectively place blockchain technology into the wallets, computers, and homes of consumers without extensive knowledge of how they operate.

…Can Hurt You

Of course, this begs the question—should we use something we don’t really understand? Of course, investment advisors and others who are paid to generate returns must be wary. In these fields, something too complex to be understood can become a cause of failure. This could eventually lead to a loss for clients or others.

What’s more, it should be obvious that failure in any system can be the result of a lack of understanding. When users don’t grasp how a system works, they need somewhere to turn to for help. Blockchain technology is no different—consumers who use technology will eventually find failure points. When they do, they’ll be a risk to themselves and others unless there are companies or governments that offer services to help.

Realism and the Adoption Curve

Providing help and giving genuine understanding are a far cry from one another. In fact, as with other technology adoption cycles, blockchain will eventually make inroads into areas where need exists. As this occurs, consumers will find themselves using systems that contain blockchain technology, but without knowing it.

Such a movement will undoubtedly take time, but inevitably, the adoption curve will continue and invisibility will be what consumers and providers must face. It will become increasingly important for everyone in the space to be realistic about consumer awareness. As David Wachsman, CEO of Wachsman PR said:

“If you want actual mass adoption, and you want the technology to be used by more people than just in this conference, then we need to simply become invisible.”

Do you think blockchain adoption will eventually come with invisibility, or should blockchain evangelists seek to provide consumer understanding rather than widespread adoption? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!