With many technologies emerging in many fields. Therefore, it takes work to keep up. Every advance is billed as “the next big thing.” Combining a report by The McKinsey Global Institute and knowledge of Pluralsight’s subject-matter experts, we’ve compiled a list of 10 technologies that will lead the fourth industrial revolution.
Mobile Internet
Interfaces, formats, sensors, and apps will evolve as mobile computing devices dominate internet connectivity. Mobile connectivity could become accessible to an additional 4.3 billion people by 2025.
Artificial Intelligence
Machine learning and user interfaces such as speech and gesture recognition technology will advance to increase productivity or eliminate some knowledge work.
Virtual and augmented reality
Goldman Sachs is betting on the virtual and augmented reality industry to become an $80 billion market by 2025—it’s around $7 billion right now. Major upgrades will come to technology infrastructure, and an ecosystem of apps will form for consumers and enterprise infrastructure.
Cloud technology
One of the biggest buzzwords of the last decade will continue to impact the next. Nearly all IT services and web apps could be delivered through the cloud, with more enterprises using the public cloud as cyber security improves.
Internet of Things
More than 9 billion devices are connected to the internet; that number is estimated to grow from 50 billion to nearly 1 trillion in the next decade. Organizations will face monitoring and securing products, systems, devices, and even people.
Advanced robotics
Advances in artificial intelligence, machine vision, sensors, motors, hydraulics, and materials will change the way products and services are delivered. A surge in tech talent for building, operating, and maintaining advanced robots will occur.
Biometric technology
A recent survey of security professionals revealed that 72 percent of companies are planning to drop traditional passwords by 2025. This will introduce new authorization services for face, voice, eye, hand, and signature identification.
3D printing
3D printing could enable unprecedented levels of mass customization and dramatically reduce the cost of supply chains, generating an estimated economic impact of $230 to $550 billion annually by 2025.
Genomics
Genetic engineering technology will grow with faster computer processing speeds. DNA sequencing technologies and advanced analytics will improve agricultural production, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and extend human life expectancy.
Blockchain
Blockchain is best known in the context of virtual currency Bitcoin, but a recent report showed 64 different use cases of blockchain across 200 companies. Streamlined, secure contracting and transacting will drive commercial use.
Conclusion
These technologies could have huge benefits for many companies, but they will also create big challenges. The McKinsey report includes a few suggestions to prepare for those challenges, emphasizing anticipating future needs through employee training: “The nature of work will continue to change, and that will require strong education and retraining programs.”
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