Technology is constantly evolving, which means that there are constant changes in trends. In 2017, there have been and will continue to be some significant trends in technology. Changes this year tend to be more centered on shaping technology to meet individualized needs. In the 21st century, if there is one thing that is guaranteed, it’s changes to technology. Technology is constantly evolving in order to meet the needs of individuals. While it used to be that people waited to see how they could adapt to the latest trends, in 2017, it seems that there has been a shift and technology is being adapted to meet the needs of users. What have been some of the biggest technological trends in 2018? Here’s a look at some of the latest advancements.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence, often simply referred to as AI, has become a major focus in 2017. In previous years, it was more of a back-end tool used by enterprises; however, this year, AI has become much more sophisticated and as such, it is taking a much more sophisticated role within technological interfaces.
Some of the most common applications for AI include:
- Autonomous driving vehicles that are utilizing computer vision
- Machine learning that offers live translations
These are just two of the applications that AI is being used in. The fact is that this type of technology is making virtually every interface smarter and easier to use. Moreover, AI is setting the bar high for future technological advancements and experiences.
Artificial intelligence is positioned to serve as the key differentiator and the face of digital brands for countless companies. Increased investments by major corporations and intense research and development indicate that AI is here to stay.
Ecosystem Power Plays
More and more companies are integrating the core functionalities of their businesses with third parties and the platforms that they use. The most forward-thinking business leaders are looking to leverage these relationships in order to establish their role in the latest digital ecosystem. This has lead to the development of future value chains that are projected to completely transform the way their businesses operate, the products that they offer, and perhaps even the market itself.
Ecosystem power plays are literally redefining the shape of businesses and completely shifting industries. This trend in technology allows for long-term growth, which further changes how businesses function and their demands for technology.
The Workforce Market Place
Thanks to the ever-changing scope of technology, business leaders have a keen interest on reinventing their workforce. Largely driven by the increased interest of on-demand labor platforms and online solutions for work management, legacy models and hierarchies are starting to be erased and replaced with more talented, higher functioning, technologically based marketplaces.
Human-Based Design
As mentioned, at one time, people waited to see what type of advances in technology would arise. Once new advancements were introduced, people would adapt themselves to the changes. However, today, people have become more focused on changing technology so that it adapts to their specific needs. As such, one of the latest trends in technology is making it adaptable to individuals; it’s literally being designed specifically to meet the needs of people’s behavior.
In 2017, the gap between effective human operation and the cooperation of machines is becoming smaller. Leaders of the most successful businesses are beginning to recognize this trend, and take advantage of it. Adaptable technology allows for more accurate use, which yields better results. Moreover, it also improves the efficacy of technology and the services that businesses offer consumers. This trend is helping to shift personalized relationships into something that is even more valuable: partnerships.
You will find more statistics at Statista
The Evolution of New Technological Standards
Companies aren’t only focused on developing new products and services for consumers; they are actually starting to shape new digital industries. In order to achieve – and maintain – success, companies have to be willing to shift their objectives. Doing so will allow organizations to become more successful by allowing them to create new products and services that are designed to meet the specific needs of their customers.
The most successful organizations are realizing that they have to adjust and take on new responsibility in order to adopt and shape the latest digital trends. In order to evolve, companies are at the forefront of technological advances and ensuring that they implement them into their practices to better need the needs of their customers and drive the success of their businesses.
The Adoption of Liquid Workforces
The leading companies have started looking to take full advantage of all that technology offers, thereby enabling the transformation of their workforce into a virtual “liquid” workforce. Companies are creating highly adaptable environments that are ready to change at the drop of a dime in order to meet the high demands of the dynamic digital trends that are currently available, and that will be available in the future.
A liquid workforce offers a strong competitive advantage for companies. It enables workers to shift their objectives and better accommodate the needs of consumers. This, in turn, leads to greater success in the workplace environment, and greater success for businesses, overall.
Digital Trust
As more and more aspects of the business world are becoming digital, the opportunities to take advantage of changes and scale operations significantly increase. However, there is a downside to this: increased ability means that there is an increased risk of exposure to data breaches and other serious problems. In order to ensure sensitive information remains safe and establish the trust of consumers, businesses are adopting digital trusts. These trusts ensure the safety of pertinent data, thereby reducing the risk of potentially devastating consequences.
Companies that want to boost their success need to take advantage of ever-changing shifts in technology, including the latest trends. By incorporating the aforementioned trends, companies can solidify their position in a world driven by technology.