Social media is the most disruptive form of communication humankind has seen since the last disruptive form of communications, email.

Ryan Holmes’ quote emphasizes the disruptive nature of social media as a powerful form of communication that has fundamentally changed the way people connect and share information. He compares it to previous disruptions in communication, such as email, suggesting that just as email revolutionized communication in its time, social media has done the same, albeit on an even larger scale. Holmes is acknowledging the rapid and transformative impact that social media platforms have had on society, businesses, and personal interactions.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Holmes' background as the founder of Hootsuite, a platform that helps businesses manage social media presence. As an entrepreneur deeply embedded in the world of digital communication, Holmes has witnessed firsthand the evolution of how people and organizations engage with each other. His perspective reflects his understanding of the technology and communication tools that have reshaped industries, emphasizing that social media is a powerful and disruptive force in the digital age.

Holmes’ statement also highlights the speed at which these new forms of communication can cause societal shifts. Just as email drastically altered how businesses and individuals communicated in the late 20th century, social media has further accelerated the globalization of communication, breaking down barriers of distance and time. The disruptive nature of these technologies is not just about their novelty, but about how they challenge traditional forms of communication, creating new norms and practices that influence everything from personal relationships to marketing strategies.

Ultimately, Holmes’ quote underscores the idea that social media has become a dominant force in modern communication, changing how information is disseminated and received. By likening it to the impact of email, he places social media within a broader historical context of technological advancements that continuously reshape the ways humans connect and interact with the world around them.