In "The Innovators," Walter Isaacson explores the collaborative nature of innovation that led to the digital revolution. A key theme is the importance of a fully functioning system in invention, as emphasized by Eckert when he highlighted the contrast between their machine and that of Atanasoff. This points to the idea that successful inventions are not just about individual components but rather how these parts work together seamlessly.

Eckert's remark underscores the collaborative spirit that characterized many significant technological advancements. It illustrates that while individual inventors contribute unique ideas, the real breakthroughs arise when those concepts are integrated into a comprehensive system, facilitating greater functionality and usability.