Technology continues to change our world at an unprecedented rate. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are already transforming our lives and the way we work in significant ways. With AI, ML and 5G, these technologies may be so revolutionary that it will compete with the likes of the internet or the combustion engine in history books. Along with these disruptive technologies, there are plenty of other technology shifts on the horizon that is worth giving a closer look as we enter the new decade. Here are some trends that will impact how work gets done in a digital business in 2020:
Content Services Platforms Will Focus on AI and ML Enabled Collaboration
In 2020, we will continue to see Enterprise Content Management (ECM) providers focus on collaboration services to enable content accessibility to customers, suppliers and business partners. While traditionally ECM providers have focused on providing content repositories and process automation, we will see a major shift toward investment in ML for insight engines, content analytics and autonomous workflows.
Low-Code, No-Code and RPA Solutions Will Become the Standard
We’ll also start to see more organizations take advantage of a low-code or no-code ECM capabilities coupled with robotic process automation. This will allow for business-led innovation, while reducing the burden on constrained IT resources since users won’t necessarily need the ability to code in order to leverage the technology. Rather than custom programming a solution, these businesses will be able to leverage these technologies to optimize costs, reduce time spent on repetitive tasks and allow existing workers to focus on more important, valuable work.
Data Privacy Is More Important Than Ever
ECM will also become even more important as the repository/place where companies can centralize, secure and harness data that informs their business and strategy. As data grows, there’s no way for humans to plow through it all — which is why we need ML and AI to help mine it. This also means, however, that the importance of proper data management will grow, lest it becomes a liability for a business. With GDPR, California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and other regulations today, data privacy is more important than ever, particularly for B2C companies to know where and how customer data is collected, managed and shared with third parties.
The Industry Is Taking the Talent Gap Seriously
We have been concerned about a growing talent gap in technology for years, however, in 2020 we will likely see it worsen. The good news is that the challenge is being addressed in several ways.
Universities such as USC, Cal Poly Pomona and California State University, Long Beach, are adding data science and cybersecurity majors/minors to their existing offerings. ISACA, a leading security and IT audit non-profit organization, offers certifications for IT audit, IT risk and security. Enterprises will also start to get more serious about re-tooling and re-skilling their existing workforce for innovative, new technologies.
How It Will All Shake Out
In the coming year, disruptive technologies will continue to change how we live, work and play. The future is exciting as we consider all the possibilities. There is one thing is for certain: A year from now, the advancements of tomorrow will be old news.
