The Top 2 Technology Trends You Can't Afford To Ignore

A new year means emerging technology trends, but which ones represent timely advancements for your business and which ones represent here-today-gone-tomorrow innovations?

Each year, Gartner, a leading information technology research and advisory company located in Stamford, Connecticut, compiles the top 10 technologies “that companies should factor into their strategic planning processes.”  Strategic technologies often represent business advantages for early adopters, as well as the ability to cause significant market disruption within the next three to five years.

The most relevant strategic technology trends relate to and impact a business’s long-term plans, products, services and overall business initiatives. We’ve condensed Gartner’s list into the top two long-term technology innovations for your business to adopt in 2015:

1. Computing Anywhere And Everywhere
   
   Mobile compatibility is increasingly about serving the user in different “contexts and environments.” For your business, the trend of wearable computing devices, smarter phones and widespread WiFi means reaching users and putting their mobile experience first. User experience is at the forefront of most technology trends, which makes design and usability crucial factors in engaging these users and winning them over. In a world full of mobile devices, being connected to your increasingly connected customers and prospects is key.
   
   
2. The Internet Of Things (IoT)
   
   IoT is about incorporating Internet connectivity with every device. More and more devices are being digitized, and this trend creates more opportunities for businesses to enter into new markets. For CEOs, there’s value in using technology to increase the functionality of existing products. For example, Nest, which was recently purchased by Google, created a thermostat that allows users to change home temperature virtually from anywhere, saving homeowners time and money. Technology and the Internet should be leveraged through services, too. In the next year, for instance, a B2B company delivering liquid or gas products may develop a way to implement an electronic gauge so users never have to call for a refill on fuel. The key to tapping into these opportunities is leveraging four basic usage models as identified by Gartner: Manage, Monetize, Operate and Extend.  

There’s an important principle to consider when thinking about how to incorporate the above concepts into your business plan and IT strategy. Hung LeHug, Gartner Vice President, says, “Although much of the spotlight today is on the Internet of Things, the true power and benefit of the Internet comes from combining things with people, places and information systems. This expanded and comprehensive view of the Internet is what Gartner calls the Internet of Everything.”

Leveraging the power of these two strategic technology trends, combined with Gartner’s advice, will help you steer your technology initiatives in the right direction throughout 2015.