The digital world keeps us on our toes. What was ‘hot’ for one year if often ‘not’ the next. At the beginning of each year, experts from all over the globe share their predictions about the big technology and software trends to look out for. But can we really make predictions in a sector so fast-paced, innovative and constantly evolving?

 

Summarised below are some of the key topics you’ll find being highlighted and discussed online for 2019. Some may be relevant to your business, others not, but it’s important to acknowledge that despite the uncertain economic landscape, technology continues to advance rapidly. Software development in particular is constantly evolving and we find our office busy and in need of talented software developers to work with us in Manchester. If you know one or are one, be sure to check out our careers page. The perks are good!

 

So, on to the trends we’re hearing and reading about…

 

AI

Whether we like it or not, AI is going to continue to impact our lives. The potential power of AI is immense, and companies are starting to take it far more seriously as early adopters are reaping the benefits. AI is transforming digital businesses, infiltrating every sector. AI is key to automation and enhanced customer service. AI-based chatbots will become more sophisticated in 2019, as Google continues to lead the way in this field.

 

Blockchain

Despite concerns around the fast growth of Bitcoin and the subsequent rise and fall of other crypto-currencies, Blockchain will grow even more this year. Blockchain is a peer-to-peer network of interconnected computers for storing data or information which can’t be modified or stolen by anyone. It is a distributed ledger technology which removes the need for central entities. Business owners and app developers are showing more interest in understanding the technology and how to incorporate it into their traditional processes.  

 

5G Technology

It’s been talked about for a while now, but 5G technology will provide us with high speed data transfers in 2019. Rural areas and 4G blackspots should soon benefit from an effective 5G alternative. The workforce has much to gain too, especially those with remote staff and cloud-based models.

 

Internet of Things (IoT)

Definitely not new, but still on the rise. By 2020 it is estimated that there will be more than 30 billion devices connected to the internet. The data we collect from these devices will become more valuable than ever – if we can analyse it correctly.

 

Data

The way we analyse data and use it to understand our client base will improve. However, as the amount of data we gather grows exponentially, we will need data experts to help us make sense of it all. With the right experts, the data is meaningful, enabling companies to improve their efficiency, productivity and overall customer experience. The marriage of meaningful data with intelligent bespoke software is the jackpot businesses should be aiming for.

 

Security & Privacy

Not so much a trend, but an area that continues to demand our attention in the software and technology sector. Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical issues facing our industry today. Any company that doesn’t have a high value for security will see their business compromised. We are all becoming more tech savvy and aware of the potential threats. As digital businesses, we need to reassure our customers that their data is safe, that our systems are sound and security is robust.

 

Does your business want to be ‘on trend’?

As business leaders, we need to know when and where to invest in new technology and when and where to hold back. Embracing new technology should be driven by the needs of the business, your customers or your staff. It is worth evaluating your current systems and procedures on a regular basis, alongside your software platforms, security and data processes.

 

At Kaleida we take the time to ask questions. We determine what your business needs, and how best to build it. We work with the Agile Scrum Methodology which allows us to plan and develop whilst constantly evaluating our work at each stage with the customer. We believe this is the best and most efficient method of delivering bespoke software that is fit for purpose, and fit for the future of your business. If you’d like to know more about how we work, you can read about our approach here, or please get in touch below.  

 

We work across a number of business sectors to provide effective bespoke software solutions. To discover more of what we can do, get in touch with our team today.