Emerging Trends in Technology Industries
- Citizen Development Environments
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Blockchain Technology
- Applications for Data Science
- Robotics and Automation
Dozens of technology fields have exploded in the last decade and fresh innovations continue to emerge with each passing year. While computer science still lingers near the heart of most of these new developments, there are many specialized applications and professions that have become industries in their own right. Not every field is revolutionary or enduring, but current predictions indicate that many of these are likely to expand rapidly in the years ahead.
1. Citizen Development Environments
Citizen development refers to a software development process that allows customers, usually business clients, to design applications within an established environment. This is accomplished with a low code interface design that allows users to “drag and drop” their way to program creation. While this may seem clunky on the surface, it actually gives companies a lot more control over their own software tools and opens up pathways for innovation.
2. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Machine learning describes the process of creating responsive devices that can learn and adapt through experience. In data science applications, this experience usually takes the form of vast amounts of information to prime and test the algorithms. Face and voice recognition software also incorporates elements of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology, allowing them to gather more precise information.
3. Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology garnered a lot of public attention thanks to the surge of interest in cryptocurrencies, but its biggest impact may lie in other industries altogether. Many cybersecurity experts and professionals are looking for new ways to incorporate elements of blockchain design into their own processes, allowing for safer transmission and storage of information. Blockchain development is expected to grow as a field largely thanks to heightened interest from tech-oriented businesses.
4. Applications for Data Science
Data science includes many elements of mathematics and statistics, but it is also deeply ingrained in the realm of computer science. Data scientists apply their skills to collect, curate and analyze information to produce meaningful, actionable results for their employer. Government institutions, healthcare providers, research facilities and businesses are all expected to expand their use of applied data science, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
5. Robotics and Automation
Robotics and automation are among the fastest growing professions within the field of engineering. Automated machines are certainly not a feature unique to the 21st century, but the last decade has seen incredible advances in the precision, reliability, and complexity of autonomous equipment. Developments in the fields of machine learning and artificial intelligence have also fueled advances in applied robotics.
Staying at the cutting edge of scientific development is an endless task, but it does present the opportunity to capitalize on the newest innovations. These tech fields are among the fastest growing in the industry, but there are many more that are just as exciting and potentially game-changing in the years ahead.
