Work Environment
Attention technology enthusiasts! The pace of technological evolution is advancing at such a rapid rate that observers may find themselves experiencing varying degrees of astonishment while attempting to keep up with the latest trends and innovations. It has impacted the work environment.
From the realm of Web3, blockchains, and NFTs to the realm of extended reality (XR), modular computers, and the wide range of services offered, the past year has unequivocally demonstrated that the technology of the future is not as distant as once thought – and it holds the potential to revolutionize the world as we presently know it.
However, amidst the bustling clamor of marketing campaigns and the buzz of media attention, one pressing question emerges: How can you navigate through transient fads and make investments in genuinely groundbreaking technology? Equally important, which of these technology trends can genuinely contribute to achieving your organization’s objectives? SHI’s Resource Hub consulted with four in-house experts specializing in the modern workplace to uncover the answers.
Distinguishing Between Fads and Innovations
For those who hold decision-making roles in IT, it’s a familiar scenario: your inbox often becomes inundated with emails from unfamiliar brands touting their innovative, patent-pending solutions as the panacea for all your business challenges. More often than not, these emails are promptly disregarded – and this applies to the myriad of similar messages from other brands as well.
However, when the quest for a new solution to conquer obstacles or achieve goals is in full swing, how can one accurately discern whether a new solution is a fleeting trend or a prospect that can truly fortify an organization in the long run?
Melissa Gwaldis, Principal Architect for SHI’s Advanced Solutions Group (ASG), offers her guidance, drawing on her over 25 years of IT experience, which spans from fleeting, ineffective solutions to transformative innovations that have permanently altered entire technology sectors.
“To begin,” advises Melissa, “it’s essential to identify your pain points and desired business outcomes.” She emphasizes the significance of understanding priorities while researching novel solutions and ascertaining whether they align with goals and enhance existing processes. Melissa encourages hands-on evaluation through demonstrations and proofs of concept (POCs), emphasizing the importance of tangible data and results specifically applicable to unique use cases.
Sustainable Trends Beyond Passing Phases
With the announcement of a new technology, emotions of delight, enthusiasm, or even puzzlement often arise. However, once proven successful, imagining work without it becomes a challenge. As experts assert, certain solutions may have commenced as mere trends, but they have swiftly established themselves as indispensable investments for organizations.
1. The Metaverse and Digital Twins:
The metaverse offers boundless virtual workspaces, enabling users to transcend conventional limitations of remote or traditional offices. This novel environment introduces an entirely fresh approach for organizations to develop equitable and accessible work experiences, irrespective of user location, language, or abilities.
2. Device Management Consolidation
The modern workplace thrives on diverse device fleets encompassing an array of form factors, operating systems, and brands. Streamlining device management is the crux of the matter, a trend that’s making a lasting imprint on organizations. The ability to manage various device types concurrently through a unified tool is pivotal, significantly reducing complexities for IT teams.
3. Sustainable Asset Disposal, Recovery, and Repair
Revolutionizing asset disposal and recovery processes is a crucial trend, driven by the need to efficiently replace devices distributed during the initial stages of the pandemic. Novel QR code-based models expedite secure device disposal, enabling swift and environmentally responsible decommissioning.
4. Extended Reality (XR) Untethered by Cloud
Extended reality (XR) encompasses a diverse range of components, from VR headsets to AR glasses, each enhancing workplace capabilities. Cloud computing has untethered XR devices, expanding their potential. This development is poised to redefine end-user devices and capabilities.
5. Generative AI
Generative AI tools like Dall-E, ChatGPT, and Midjourney are gaining traction. These tools, though still in their nascent stage, are poised to transform organizational operations. AI tools such as Microsoft’s Copilot can enhance productivity and streamline tasks for knowledge workers.
By exploring these trends, organizations can harness their potential for sustained growth and innovation. As these trends continue to evolve, the modern workplace is destined to witness transformative changes, further amplifying efficiency, engagement, and effectiveness.
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