As 2024 approaches, key technology trends emerge, including the maturity of Generative AI applications, convergence of IT/security teams, a focus on real-time data analytics through hyperscalers, and the rise of zero-trust security models. Businesses will prioritise outcome-oriented IT spending, embrace post-quantum cryptography, and strengthen human skills in AI integration, all while addressing rising social engineering threats and emphasising sustainability in technology usage, culminating in a cautious yet promising embrace of artificial intelligence.
As we stand on the brink of 2024, a remarkable tapestry of technological evolution is poised to unfurl. The landscape will be defined by crucial elements such as Generative AI, which is ready to shed its theoretical cloak and embrace practical applications. Coupled with the urgent push for sustainability, particularly in AI model development, and the awakening presence of quantum computing, the future anticipates not just change, but a paradigm shift in how technology intertwines with everyday business operations and life itself.
Technology Magazine recently delved into these imminent trends, gathering insights from industry leaders to chart the course for the upcoming year. Among the frontrunners, the maturity of AI projects signals a transition from nascent ideas to actual enterprise implementations, unlocking profound efficiencies that were previously unfathomable. For instance, Dell Technologies’ John Roese highlighted this shift, noting, “As we move into 2024, we will see the first wave of GenAI enterprise projects reach levels of maturity that will expose important dimensions of GenAI not yet understood in the early phases.”
In an era where threats loom larger and more complex, a crucial convergence of IT and security teams is underway, as articulated by CrowdStrike’s Zeki Turedi. This merging of disciplines aims to strengthen organisational resilience, reflecting an evolving understanding of how intertwined these domains have become in combating sophisticated cyber threats. “This convergence is particularly timely and necessary as singular threats now simultaneously target both infrastructure and security,” says Turedi.
Amidst this convergence, hyperscalers are set to enhance real-time data analytics, as SambaNova Systems’ Rodrigo Liang forecasts a new frontier where AI models leverage current data to improve efficiency exponentially. This powerful collaboration is expected to yield a real-time ecosystem that holds transformative potential across various sectors ranging from healthcare to finance.
The zero-trust security model takes centre stage in today’s hybrid workspace, embracing a more complex reality of device and application reliance. As organisations structure their access protocols like never before, they strive for security that safeguards sensitive data without encumbering productivity. Chris Peake from Smartsheet predicts that role-based and time-based access will rise as organisations nurture the balance of security and usability.
Meanwhile, IT spending is on the verge of becoming increasingly outcome-oriented. As Lenovo’s Linda Yao states, businesses will lean towards investments that yield measurable results, transitioning from legacy systems to agile, next-generation technology solutions that propel them towards specific objectives.
Parallel to this, quantum computing is beginning to compact its ethereal potential into tangible applications.Cisco’s Liz Centoni highlights that we will witness post-quantum cryptography gaining momentum, crafting a protective cloak for data ahead of future quantum threats.
In the realm of human skills, a crucial dialogue is emerging around AI integration and customer engagement. NTT’s Sashen Naidu reinforces that while AI will automate processes, the indispensable human element must remain at the forefront of interactions, fostering enhanced relationships and ensuring that businesses maintain their socio-emotional cores amidst rapid technological change.
However, shadows lurk as social engineering attacks evolve, with CrowdStrike indicating that identity-based breaches will likely dominate the threat landscape. Companies must focus on strengthening these vulnerabilities, or risk falling prey to increasingly adept adversaries.
Lastly, as sustainability anchors our technological advances, the rise of energy-efficient AI systems indicates a collective commitment to addressing climate challenges while also optimising operational costs. The marriage of AI advancements with energy networking heralds a new era of conscientious computing.
In 2024, businesses are set to tread a careful path, crafting ‘guardrails’ to manage the risks associated with AI. Lenovo’s Art Hu emphasises the need for robust governance and clear policies to ensure ethical AI implementation, guiding organisations through the complexities of this transformative technology.
The article explores emerging technology trends poised to shape 2024, as seen through the perspectives of industry leaders. Key themes include the evolution of Generative AI from theoretical concepts to practical applications, the convergence of IT and security teams to boost resilience against threats, the role of hyperscalers in real-time data analytics, and the increasing importance of zero trust models. Additionally, the landscape is dotted with insights on quantum computing advancements, the necessity of human skills in AI integration, the persistent challenge of social engineering attacks, and a focus on energy efficiency alongside sustainability. Together, these elements paint a picture of a future where technology not only drives business outcomes but also aligns with ethical and sustainable practices.
The insights garnered from industry leaders underline a pivotal shift towards a technology landscape in 2024 that is proactive and purpose-driven. The maturity of AI projects, the merging of IT and security, and the commitment to sustainability showcase a comprehensive approach to leveraging technology for meaningful improvements. Moving forward, businesses will need to navigate these changes with careful governance and a focus on ethical practices to convert potential risks into opportunities for growth.
Original Source: technologymagazine.com
