Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 14 | Page 66

FINAL WORD Pros and cons of ten personal technologies Annette Jump at Gartner describes the pros and cons of ten personal digital technologies and the opportunities and concerns for businesses at large. the quality of the data and continuous maintenance of the system. 2. Virtual personal assistant For businesses, opportunities include instant responses and access to information that will increase productivity and improve client interactions. However, very real technical and security concerns surround Virtual Personal Assistants, so companies should tread cautiously. 6. 3D Cameras This technology enables depth in images, allowing businesses to measure objects and use 3D content for logistical planning and gesture and facial recognition. The technology has a potential for streamlining business processes, but is also surrounded by hype. Additionally, enterprise-level solutions can be prohibitively expensive. 7. Biometrics authentication Some biometrics technologies are still in the early adoption phase, but others, such as fingerprint and voice authentication, are quite mature. Biometrics technology could enable more streamlined mobile purchasing and better building security. Essentially, any application that could employ faster, easier authentication would benefit. 8. Wearables 3. Immersive technology Annette Jump, Research Director, Gartner. W ith all the personal technology currently available, it can be difficult for businesses to decipher those that represent an opportunity for end customers and those that are too immature to warrant any attention. But when used correctly, these technologies can have big business impact. Gartner selected ten technologies that technology leaders should begin to incorporate into their roadmaps and strategies. Potential business uses include training for employees and maintenance and repair across a variety of industries, such as design and healthcare. However, businesses should ensure they are not swayed by the hype surrounding the technology, which is still new and emerging. 9. Chatbots 4. 3D printing The technology is mainstream and will continue rapid growth and evolution. It will enable organisations to reduce product cycle times and create one-off products, such as medical implants. It will also offer unique opportunities in aerospace to create components that are more lightweight. Concerns exist about trade secrets and intellectual properties in this field. 1. Machine learning and artificial intelligence 5. Location sensing and tracking It is a rapidly evolving technology with digital business opportunities ranging from digitisation, improving efficiency by automating tasks, and business function optimisation, including fraud detection and spotting customer behaviour patterns. However, success or failure is tied to These technologies offer a variety of business opportunities ranging from location-aware car insurance to real-time usage and tracking for medical machinery in a hospital. Customer consent and privacy are the main concerns and hold the potential for significant brand damage. 66 Wearables offer potential business opportunities in many industries — from medical smart patches to mobile payments to industrial repairs. Device selection is only one part of the wearables process, and businesses should consider how they fit into the digital business first. Enterprises will have no difficulty finding a platform, but there is little standardisation across products. The fragmented and immature market for chatbots mean businesses should view selection as a tactical decision that may change in the future. 10. Wireless power Most consumer electronic devices do not support wireless charging, and it is seldom an essential part of a digital business offering. However, it can make processes more convenient and effective by increasing battery life and, in a few specialised verticals, such as electric car charging, change the industry. (This content has been excerpted from the original version)  Issue 14 INTELLIGENT TECH CHANNELS