The expression “steep learning curve” is frequently used, but its meaning is often misinterpreted. Examining historical examples from the 1970s reveals a fascinating duality in its interpretation, encompassing both positive and negative connotations. Understanding this nuance is crucial to correctly grasping the intended message when you encounter this phrase.
The Original, Positive Sense: Rapid Progress
In the early 1970s, particularly within business and technology contexts, “steep learning curve” was largely perceived as a positive attribute. It indicated a rapid rate of learning and improvement, especially in scenarios involving new technologies or processes. This perspective is evident in a 1973 article from the Sloan Management Review, discussing the computer industry. The article highlighted how, “Due to economies of scale and a very steep learning curve, the cost of such circuits has dropped by a factor of ten in a little over one year.” Here, a steep learning curve is directly linked to positive outcomes – significant cost reduction achieved through rapid learning and efficiency gains.
Similarly, a 1979 article in the Boston Globe about Texas Instruments further illustrates this positive interpretation. It attributed part of the company’s success to “having a steeper learning curve — and lower product costs when produced in mass — has been its ‘design to cost’ system.” In this context, a steeper learning curve is associated with business success, implying efficient learning processes that lead to lower production costs and a competitive advantage. For businesses focused on growth and efficiency, a steep learning curve was something to be desired, signifying swift progress and mastery.
The Emergence of the Negative Connotation: Difficulty and Challenge
However, concurrently, “steep learning curve” began to be used in a more subjective and individualistic sense, often carrying a negative connotation. In these instances, “steepness” was equated with difficulty, implying a challenging and arduous learning process. This shift in meaning is exemplified by Jane Cahill Pfeiffer, the newly appointed chairman of NBC, in a December 1978 New York Times interview. She stated, “I’m on a very steep learning curve, and the bulk of Fred [Silverman]’s experience is not where mine is.” Here, the steep learning curve is presented as a personal challenge, highlighting the difficulty of adapting to a new and demanding role, and contrasting her experience with that of her predecessor.
Adding to this perspective, Lord Kearton, chairman of the British National Oil Corporation, in a January 1979 interview with The Guardian, remarked, “Everybody in the North Sea is on a very steep learning curve. What worries us is the prospect of new people coming in with practically no resources of any scale, who will have to start more or less at the bottom of this curve.” In this example, the steep learning curve refers to the demanding and complex nature of operating in the North Sea oil industry. It emphasizes the significant challenges and resources required to succeed, particularly for newcomers.
Understanding the Nuance
These examples, notably from influential figures in business and industry, demonstrate how the perception of a “steep learning curve” evolved to include the idea of a difficult and challenging process. While the original meaning emphasized rapid and efficient learning, the phrase also came to signify a demanding and potentially arduous undertaking. Therefore, when encountering “steep learning curve,” it’s crucial to consider the context to discern whether it’s being used to describe rapid progress or a significant challenge. Understanding this dual meaning allows for a more accurate interpretation of the speaker or writer’s intended message.
