The New Year is just around the corner, which means the business industry is yet to see another great wave of changes — particularly in the field of technology. From the Internet of Things to 5G and artificial intelligence (AI), new technology trends are creating a digital transformation for businesses, especially for enterprises on a global level.
With 2022 coming upon us, business owners should familiarize themselves with the latest trends in technology and how these can help them push their business forward.
Top Technology Trends Businesses Can Expect in 2022
The Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G
The 5G network IS the new generation of mobile communication. The improvements to speed alone trigger a revolution. The traditional 4G takes up to 200 milliseconds to respond to commands while 5G beats these numbers by taking one millisecond to do so.
5G network’s improved efficiency is a big plus for businesses that depend on the Internet of Things, which are tangible items connected to the internet. For example, self-driving cars heavily rely on IoT devices to navigate traffic and roadways. Leasing and property management businesses now also use IoT devices to build and maintain smarter buildings that use automated door locks and connected HVAC systems.
Expanding the use of IoT by investing in 5G networks will also help businesses reduce their carbon footprint. A business’s reputation is now predicated on the technology and practices they put in place to reduce their impact on the environment.
Artificial Intelligence
AI has become a part of our daily lives as mobile phones, gadgets and other applications, which include artificial intelligence software like Google Assistant and Siri from Apple. It is estimated that by 2024, AI-generated speech will play a big part in people’s interactions with computers (more than 50 percent of it).
With artificial intelligence, your phone can simulate how a piece of furniture will look in your room and measure distances. Object and voice recognition are also two AI features that are now common in smartphones and tablets, as well as unique selling points that entice consumers to buy these smart devices.
Businesses are also adopting artificial intelligence to automate processes, cut costs and improve their overall operations.
Industries that can expect a rise in the use of AI support include:
Sales
Although sales will remain a human and personable role, artificial intelligence can support sales teams to predict market trends, improve forecasting and work on their communication lines. Advanced CRM software can also assist sales teams by identifying customers that are most likely to convert and reminding the team which customers to follow up.
Marketing
AI can help identify and sort target audiences to help advertisers determine the people who are most likely to buy their products. By studying a consumer’s behavior online (including browsing and search history), AI support systems can determine which online ads will be most effective and relevant for a marketing business’s target audience.
Manufacturing
Machinery and manufacturing always go together, which is why companies have welcomed artificial intelligence warmly. AI can anticipate demand increases and improve production via automation. As a result, manufacturing companies use AI to improve efficiencies across different stages of the manufacturing cycle.
Research and Development
There are many ways in which artificial intelligence can collect, sort and study information and data. Since AI machines process strong processing capabilities, they are often used in research and development within the financial, web development, automotive and healthcare industries.
Hybrid Workforces as Part of the New Norm
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, workforces have grown accustomed to working remotely. Many employees have created makeshift office spaces in their homes and are used to office meetings held via Zoom or Google Meets. During this time, businesses realize that remote work has its benefits since employees save time from their commutes and businesses save more money from the traditional office space’s overhead.
On top of that, returning to a traditional office environment would not be an easy task even once the pandemic ends. But not everyone is ready to transition to a fully remote workforce either.
Employees still want in-person collaboration, communication and meetings, but they’re not ready to give up working from home either. Almost 30 percent of employees will consider looking for a new job if their company removes their work-from-home policy.
In line with this, 2022 will see the rise of the following trends that promote hybrid workforces:
- Communication and collaborative applications.
- VPN services to reduce work-from-home cybersecurity risks.
- Using productivity software to determine which workers are effectively working while at home.
2022 will be an exciting year for businesses and technology. Keep these trends in mind to ensure your business will soar in the New Year.
