Theory on the diffusion of innovations has been used to study the spread of
new ideas and practices for over 50 years in a wide variety of settings. M
ost studies have been retrospective, and most have neglected to collect inf
ormation on interpersonal communication networks. In addition, few have att
empted to use the lessons from diffusion research to accelerate the diffusi
on of innovations. This article outlines a method to accelerate the diffusi
on of innovations using opinion leaders. The authors present their optimal
matching procedure and report on computer simulations that show how much fa
ster diffusion occurs when initiated by opinion leaders. Limitations and ex
tensions of the model are discussed.