than a classical computer . That , too , is part of the draw for quantum capabilities for companies , Liscouski says . “ When we compare quantum computing to classical computing , it ’ s not just the ability to get better results ; it ’ s getting better results in less time and with less power consumption ,” he says .
Making the leap While quantum computers are only on the cusp of what may be possible , business leaders need to start paying attention now . Buchholz notes that quantum computing may be just one research breakthrough away , and it ’ s hard to predict research breakthroughs . “ The industry is changing very quickly , and I would not want to see a business leader wake up one morning and discover that a bright researcher has made the breakthrough ,” he says . “ Suddenly , the technology
“ When we compare quantum computing to classical computing , it ’ s not just the ability to get better results ; it ’ s getting better results in less time and with less power consumption .” — Robert Liscouski , CEO ,
Quantum Computing Inc .
is much closer than you thought , and now you have to fight for the experience and resources and start the long journey to get there .”
And business leaders don ’ t need to understand how quantum physics works . “ Most of us don ’ t reason from first principles ,” he says . “ I don ’ t know exactly how transistors work on my phone , but that doesn ’ t stop me from using the phone .”
In other words , leave it to researchers to figure out the unruly qubits . Instead , ask what business problems those qubits could solve for you today or in the future — and make the leap . ■
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