How Technology will Transform Business in the Future

In a world full of constant innovations and transformations, this pace of change is especially prevalent in the world of technology. It is widely anticipated that technology will exert an increasing influence across a multitude of sectors, fundamentally altering both the way we live lives and conduct business. To put this into perspective, the renowned futurist, Gerd Leonhard, boldly predicts, “Humanity will change more in the next 20 years than in the previous 300 years.” This emphasises the astonishing potential that technology holds in reshaping our future. We can already see the adoption of various tools in the business world to improve efficiency and performance. However, it won’t be long before the introduction of other technological innovations that will have a disruptive impact!

The Current Landscape of Business Technology

There are an array of tools and systems that are currently used by businesses to increase efficiency and maintain a competitive edge. Among these include: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software, which facilitates the management and analysis of customer interactions. This increases customer service and drives sales through invaluable insights into customer behaviour. Additionally, the advent of Cloud Computing, exemplified by providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud, empowers businesses with scalable and cost-effective solutions for data storage and remote resource access. Furthermore, the Internet of Things (IOT) revolutionises business operations by enabling the collection and transmission of data from physical objects through devices and sensors, allowing for better process monitoring and efficiency improvements.

The role of technology will have an even more profound impact on business in the future. Automation and digitisation will continue to surge, further streamlining processes and diminishing human error which further enhances operational efficiency. The connection between businesses and their customers is set to evolve substantially, with CRM systems and digital marketing at the forefront. This evolution will provide businesses with the tools to create personalised customer experiences and offer real-time support, thus fostering enhanced customer engagement. Moreover, data analytics and artificial intelligence will increasingly empower business to make data driven decisions, swiftly adapt to market dynamics, and proactively cater to evolving customer needs.

However, as we embrace this era of technological development, a number of challenges will also arise. Cybersecurity concerns loom large as technology advances, necessitating substantial investments in robust security measures to shield sensitive data and systems from the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats and breaches. Furthermore, the perpetual evolution of technology itself poses a challenge, rendering existing systems and solutions potentially obsolete.

Proliferation of Robotics

According to PwC, the future of work is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with the potential automation of up to 30% of jobs by robots expected by the mid-2030s. The global robotics industry is continually pushing boundaries, incorporating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, computer vision, and sensory capabilities. This innovation paves the way for humans to delegate and automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks, granting robots the potential for precision and predictability in task execution. However, it's worth noting that like any electronic equipment, robots are susceptible to technical glitches, equipment malfunctions, and software vulnerabilities.

The forthcoming era will see robots assuming roles traditionally associated with lower-paying and less skill-intensive jobs. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including a shortage of manual labour and rising wages in once low-wage countries, accelerating the replacement of human workers with robotic counterparts. Currently, simulation tools are employed to instruct robots on real-world problem-solving, but these methods often fall short in addressing complex and unforeseen situations effectively.

Driverless Vehicles

In the rapidly evolving landscape of automotive technology, the adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) promises a future that is safer, more convenient, and indeed more enjoyable for drivers. With autonomous vehicles (AVs) at the forefront, the time previously spent behind the wheel can be repurposed for other activities, from watching movies or even catching up on work tasks. This shift can be a game-changer for employees facing long commutes, potentially increasing productivity and shortening workdays. Moreover, the ability to work from an autonomous car provides the flexibility to live farther from the office, potentially increasing interest in relocating to rural areas and suburbs. Also, elderly drivers can gain newfound mobility options, thereby going beyond the limitations of traditional public transportation or car-sharing services. Safety, too, stands to see significant improvements, with research indicating that the widespread adoption of ADAS in Europe could reduce accidents by up to 15% by 2030.

This transformative technology also ushers in fresh opportunities for the automotive industry. Consumer interest in AD features is on the rise, with a 2021 McKinsey survey revealing a willingness to invest in these advancements. The increasing demand for AD systems presents a lucrative prospect, potentially generating billions of dollars in revenue. With such high consumer interest and a growing market for commercial solutions, ADAS and AD could contribute a staggering $300 billion to $400 billion to the passenger car market by 2035. Furthermore, this opportunity can lead to an influx of digitally focused jobs, given the technological nature of autonomous technology. These include jobs related to: maintenance, software development and the widespread construction of smart infrastructure. With regards to the autonomous vehicle network, it could have a ripple effect on other industries, such as telecommunications and power and utilities.

The ripple effect of autonomous cars on various industries cannot be understated. As AD technology curbs the number of accidents and collisions, there is a potential reduction in the need for roadside assistance and repair services. This, in turn, may challenge businesses that rely on these services as consumer adoption of AD continues to soar. Furthermore, self-driving cars may shift the liability landscape, potentially leading to reduced insurance premiums for individual drivers who cede control to AD systems. Consequently, the emergence of new business-to-business insurance models appears likely as autonomous travel becomes an integral part of the business landscape.

Preparing for the Future

In essence, the future is very promising and as businesses adapt to the ever-evolving technological landscape, adaptability and innovation will be key. Embracing these changes will not only ensure survival but also unlock new opportunities and propel us into a future of unprecedented possibilities. So, whether it's in the boardroom, on the factory floor, or in the driver's seat, technology is set to be the catalyst for transformative change, reshaping the business landscape as we know it.

Whilst we appreciate that this can feel overwhelming, we believe that a futurist speaker can help you navigate the unknown and turn that anxiety into boundless potential for creativity and progress. With their guidance, you'll be able to see the endless possibilities that lie ahead and watch your business soar to new heights!

Our friendly, impartial and expert team will find the perfect speaker for your organisation, so get in touch today!