The Changing Face of Technology in the Workplace
February 7, 2024The Rise of Remote Work Technology
Prior to the onset of the pandemic in 2020, few companies were offering remote and hybrid work plans and the systems available to support remote workers were limited. These days, there’s no shortage of software and technology available to facilitate off site work. Collaboration and communication tools, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Slack, quickly evolved from a limited functionality bleeding edge solutions to a veritable necessity. Almost everyone attends virtual meetings these days, even when we’re in the same building! We also saw the rapid implementation of cloud storage, file sharing and document management systems to ensure that workers had access to the information they needed to do their jobs, no matter where they were. Remote work isn’t going anywhere, so if you haven’t invested in technology to support offsite teams, now is the time.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Automation
Talk of artificial Intelligence (AI) seems to be everywhere these days and it’s more than just a catchy buzzword. This revolutionary technology has found its way into human resources, customer service, healthcare, accounting departments, and more. Whether it’s screening resumes, acting as a chat bot, assisting with diagnostic procedures, or automating workflows in your accounts receivable process, you’ll find AI everywhere. This powerful tool can help you to streamline processes, automate repetitive tasks and offer always on customer service. AI and automation augment your team, not replace them. A well thought out implementation gives your team the time to focus on projects that grow and expand your business instead of repetitive busy work.
Advancements in Cyber Security Measures
With the rise of remote work, an increase in contracted workers and a move to cloud-based computing, cyber security has never been more important. According to Geeks for Geeks, more than 6000 new computer viruses are created and deployed every month. Ransomware attacks continue to increase and payments exceeded $1 billon dollars in 2023 writes, Wired. The good news is that as these threats increase, so does our ability to mitigate them. AI again makes an appearance being used to predict, detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. AI is capable of analyzing incredible amounts of data and look for anomalies that may indicate a security breach allowing for faster responses. Encryption methods have also been dramatically improved making it far more difficult to access information, even on the off chance that it is intercepted. Going beyond current methods, quantum cryptography is right around the corner. This emerging technology creates unique encryption algorithms in real time that are unique to the sender and recipient helping to ensure maximum data security.
The Shift to Cloud Computing
Gone are the costly days of maintaining servers and storage on site. With the rise of cloud computing and the previously mentioned security improvements, you can maintain your data in the cloud for easy access anywhere. These systems are cost effective and reduce the need for upfront capital expenditures on hardware and software as well and maintenance and upgrades. You pay for what you need and scale up when required. Cloud storage solutions offer redundant version backups across multiple locations which helps to ensure that even if you are the victim of a security breach, your data remains secure. This technology also supports remote teams by allowing them to work from anywhere while still having access to the same data and tools as they would in the office. No matter where your people are located, they can collaborate and work as if they’re in the same room. Cloud computing is a key part of the changing face of technology in the workplace.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Since the 90’s and up until very recently, virtual reality (VR) has been little more than a novelty. That’s all about to change. With advancements in the past few years and Apple’s newly released Vision Pro headset, the age of VR may finally be upon us. Imagine attending meetings and training sessions in real time from anywhere. Current options are revolutionizing training. Lincoln Electric offers a virtual welding simulator that allows students to learn and practice welding techniques virtually, in a safe, realistic, waste free environment. When looking at Augmented Reality (AR) we think of failed efforts like Google Glass and Magic Leap, but this technology is also starting to appear in business. From smart mirrors that allow you to try on clothes and make up to maintenance overlays on actual parts in the field, you’ve likely already interacted with AR without realizing it. These tools allow us to interact with each other and our environment in ways we’re only just beginning to realize.
The Future of Work: Predictions and Preparations
So, what’s next when it comes to the changing face of technology in the workplace? We can guess a few things about the future, though. The rollout of 5G is expanding. This means better connectivity, almost anywhere. It will likely boost remote work even more. Teams will be able to connect from anywhere, thanks to fast and secure internet. Quantum computing is also emerging. It’s set to solve problems much faster than today’s tech. This could change AI, encryption, and materials science in big ways.
How do we prepare for what’s coming? Stay informed. Keep up with trusted news, technology blogs, podcasts, and journals. Embrace learning. It’s crucial for you and your team to adapt to new changes. Try out new technologies. Fear often comes from the unknown. If there’s a chance to try a beta version or get hands-on with new tech, go for it. We can’t always predict the next big thing. But if we’re open to change and keep learning, we’ll be ready for anything.