As organizations continue to navigate economic challenges, PPC Limited, a leading ICT and infrastructure development company, has shared some technology trends that will help Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) or Chief Information Officers (CIOs) to improve business operations and attain corporate goals.
The Director of Operations at PPC Limited, Dr Patrick Ede, said, “This year’s predictions highlight some key aspects of hardware and software technologies that IT managers must prioritize in their strategy to remain competitive over the next 12 months.”
1. Smart Technologies
Smart technologies have a transformative effect wherever they are applied. This year, organisations as well as the government will harness the benefits they offer. In smart cities, the application of IoT and other smart systems will ensure citizens needs are met in terms of seamless communication, connected transport systems, street lighting, security and traffic control. In buildings, smart devices that use artificial intelligence can prevent unauthorized access, track assets and improve overall security. Efficiency, productivity and increased uptime will greatly improve with the use of fully-integrated manufacturing systems that untilises the trending AI, IoT and other cloud-based applications that can be managed from any location.
2. 5G network
The launch and availability of 5G network will greatly improve broadband access for various mission-critical and secure operations. Increased adoption of 5G has been predicted for three countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria in 2023. Already, there are 5G- consumer devices in the country, which are facilitating increased uptake.
The improved speeds and low latency 5G offers will open up another world of possibilities for better industrial operations as well as investment in entertainment driven by extended reality, augmented reality, virtual reality, and Ultra High-Density videos. Energy companies can benefit from real-time monitoring of energy usage and improved revenue using 5G network access.
3. Clean climate technologies
The climate change drive and commitment of organizations to reimagine their operations and reduce emissions will encourage investment in clean technologies that reduce environmental impact and ensure energy efficiencies such as renewable power solutions and smart lighting.
4. Collaborative tools
The remote or flexible work model is here to stay and workplaces will continue to develop flexible work capabilities and invest in collaborative tools that make communication seamless.
5. Cybersecurity
As organizations continue to build their digital capacities, data protection and privacy are vital. While there’s a lot of focus on cyber protection, organizations need to develop capacities in cyber resilience in the event of an actual attack or an error. Training of personnel on safety on the web coupled with data recovery and continuity efforts should not take a backseat.
6. Cloud
More businesses will move their storage to the Cloud this year as it is a critical aspect of digital transformation. Cloud products and services support remote or hybrid workplaces and ensure data privacy while delivering scalability, speed, and cost savings.
Ede added, “While the list is non-exhaustive, these are critical areas that decision-makers need to harness for the development of new offerings and improvement of existing ones.”
PPC Nigeria’s expertise in the deployment of best-in-class ICT and engineering solutions has assisted several organizations in the public and private sectors to create a secure and collaborative work environment.