Dive Brief:
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Artificial intelligence (AI), immersive technologies and digitizations of technology infrastructure are the three technology "megatrends" that will allow organizations to remain competitive in the digital economy, according to Gartner.
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Over the next five to 10 years, AI is projected to be the most disruptive megatrend, while immersive experiences are centered around human interaction with technology, according to Gartner. Digital platforms will likely lay a foundation for new business models replacing compartmentalized technical infrastructure.
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Gartner identified the megatrends by analyzing more than 2,000 technologies to identify what will have the biggest business impact in years to come. The research firm said businesses can use the insights to direct investments to better support the technology once it becomes prevalent.
Dive Insight:
It’s not a surprise AI made the list. IDC recently estimated more than 80 of the world's 100 largest enterprise software companies (by revenue) will soon have one or more integrated cognitive technologies in their product line and customer experiences.
The industry has already seen a glimpse of how appealing immersive technology can be with augmented and virtual reality. Despite the original failure of Google Glass, companies like VMware and Intel are still full steam ahead in creating wearable glasses for the enterprise. By 2021, spending on AR and VR will increase from 2017's $11.4 billion to $215 billion, according to IDC.
Platform-enabling technologies like Blockchain, IoT, Quantum Computing and Software-Defined Security will enable huge leaps forward in how organizations use technology to improve efficiencies and increase revenue. Companies that are not currently monitoring these emerging techs will have a hard time keeping pace with companies that are implementing and using them.
