As we approach 2020, it’s time to start thinking about which new technologies you should anticipate emerging in the coming months. And while you know better than most that new tech is always exciting, there’s something special about the latest round of emerging tools, particularly when it comes to automation.
Here are the ones you should keep an eye out for to help you with your small business:
Blockchain
When it comes to managing secure transactions, blockchain could be the solution your team needs. Blockchain, which allows digital information to be distributed without being copied, could eliminate the need for costly and untrustworthy third-party apps. Currently, it’s mostly used for processing cryptocurrency payments but is expected to extend to other financial, medical, and real estate industries.
But regardless of the market you work in, implementing blockchain technologies could help you earn more money. A recent report estimated that blockchain could generate $3.1 trillion in business value by 2030.
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence has been sneaking its way into the business world for years, but it’s about to get a lot more advanced than customer service bots.
While many AI services, like facial-recognition software and speech recognition, still require a fair amount of human intervention, it’s reaching a point where even small businesses can implement it in their daily routines to improve online experiences and security.
5G networks
Internet service could get faster quicker than expected thanks to 5G networks. And you’ll be able to do more than download movies and scroll through social media — some say 5G technology could power driverless cars.
So what does that mean for your small business? Think more online traffic and lightning-fast service.
Internet of Things
It’s a ubiquitous term, but the Internet of Things — or the interconnectivity of devices that can access WiFi is about to become a lot more important to businesses like yours. Experts say the number of devices connected through the IoT will reach 20 billion by 2020.
If your business creates products, you should focus your efforts on creating things that can be easily connected. If you create services, ensure they can be accessed by voice and touch and are optimized for various types of screens.
Edge computing
You’ve likely worked with cloud technology in your time — so you know it’s not a flawless system. Experts say the slow, spotty cloud could soon be replaced by a technology that stores data “on the edge.”
Cleverly dubbed “edge computing,” this new technology will allow users to access data quickly, securely and, believe it or not, without having internet access.
As you experiment with these emerging technologies and others, keep track of what matters with secure and reliable data storage. Data is one of your most important aspects, and the right solution — whether directly stored through a disk or done by network — can keep it safe.
