The pace of technological change is accelerating rapidly. As a CIO, it’s critical to stay ahead of emerging tech trends and understand how they will impact your organization. Here are some key ways CIOs can prepare for the next wave of tech disruption:
Keep Learning About New Technologies
Make learning about new technologies a priority. Stay on top of tech news and trends. Attend conferences, read industry reports, and connect with peers to understand which emerging technologies have the most disruptive potential.
Some key technologies to focus on include:
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Artificial intelligence and machine learning – AI and ML will transform how businesses analyze data, automate processes, and interact with customers.
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5G networks – Faster connectivity will enable new mobile apps and IoT devices. It will require evaluating network infrastructure.
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Quantum computing – Quantum computers have the potential to rapidly solve complex problems. This could revolutionize areas like cryptography, material science, and drug discovery.
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Augmented and virtual reality – AR and VR open new possibilities for training, manufacturing, and enhancing products and services.
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Blockchain – Blockchain offers secure decentralized record keeping and has disruptive implications for payments, contracts, and digital assets.
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Biometrics – Behavioral and physiological biometrics like fingerprint, facial, and voice recognition are enhancing security and identity management.
Foster a Culture of Innovation
As a CIO, work cross-functionally to create a culture of innovation and digital transformation. Encourage teams to continuously evaluate processes and find ways to leverage new technologies to drive efficiency and value.
Promote an agile approach of launching pilots and experiments. Be comfortable with failing fast and learning from mistakes. Celebrate successes, no matter how small.
Consider forming an emerging tech innovation group to actively prototype and assess the potential of new technologies. Empower them to push boundaries.
Update Legacy Infrastructure
Legacy IT systems and technical debt can make it challenging to implement new technologies. Take stock of your existing infrastructure and start modernizing.
Some key steps include:
- Moving to the cloud for greater scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency
- Consolidating and rationalizing applications to streamline your portfolio
- Upgrading networks to support faster connectivity and IoT devices
- Ensuring you have APIs and microservices to support integration
- Evaluating endpoints and cybersecurity to support remote work and mobility
Upskill Teams and Hire New Talent
The skills needed in your organization will evolve as technologies change. Analyze current skills gaps and develop training programs. Bring in outside expertise where needed.
Key skills to cultivate include:
- Cloud architecture and engineering
- Data science, analytics, and AI/ML
- Cybersecurity
- Software development and coding
- Product management
- Business analysis
Consider supplementing your teams with contractors that have niche technical expertise. Stay connected to the startup ecosystem for emerging talent.
Collaborate Across the Business
New technologies require new ways of working. Foster close collaboration between IT and business units. Jointly evaluate how emerging tech can be applied to create business value.
Involve business partners in ideation and proof of concepts. Align priorities and investment decisions. With a cross-functional approach, CIOs can ensure technology adoption delivers strong ROI.
Take a Proactive Approach to Change
The growing pace of technological change can feel overwhelming. As a CIO, take a proactive approach to disruption. Stay on the lookout for emerging technologies, update skills and infrastructure, and collaborate across the business. With the right preparation, CIOs can harness the power of new technologies to drive innovation and results.
