Change is a constant factor in the fast-moving world of technology. New products and trends come and go so fast that it is difficult to keep up with, but if an organization wants to avoid the risk of falling behind, it is a must to keep abreast of current developments.
1. Super-fast technology at your fingertips At
speeds up to 100 times higher than its predecessor, 5G will be the second largest evolution in the telecom industry. It promises super-fast download speeds and a lower latency. However, the arrival of 5G also means that companies must prepare for the implementation of this technology both in the workplace and beyond.
Smartphones bring the possibilities of 5G directly within reach. It is therefore expected that we can expect a doubling when it comes to the smartphone as a favorite device in the workplace. And as the adaptation and value of flexible devices such as the smartphone increase, so too will the demand for products to better protect these devices.
Organizations will have to adapt the workplace and work floor to the modern needs of employees in order to facilitate a seamless experience for various devices for them.
2. Security remains a priority
2019 After the introduction of the GDPR in 2018, the focus was on data protection. This also brought the debate about cyber security to the forefront, encouraging both organizations and consumers to pay more attention to their personal data. Yet cyber security is often limited to a silo, separate from the physical security of data, while the two are nevertheless inextricably linked.
To illustrate, all you have to do is look at the example of Heathrow Airport in the UK. They received a fine of no less than 120,000 pounds last October after a staff member lost a USB stick that was later found by a citizen. This example shows that a seemingly small error can have large and expensive consequences. A lost USB stick or lost smartphone can already be enough to expose the confidential data of an organization. In 2020, the focus on combining cyber and physical security will grow.
3. Sustainability is gaining importance
In the past year we have seen enough examples of greenwashing and sustainability commitments that have not been met. However, sustainability will continue to gain in importance in 2020. The changing wishes of customers require companies to take action in all different areas.
Resellers and cooperation partners demand transparency in the field of sustainability from their suppliers. After all, every organization will set high standards for its environmental policy across the board.
As a small organization, it is easier to set up a short supply chain for sustainability, but as the size of the company grows, it can become difficult to keep all levels green. It is the responsibility of the organization to encourage this change and to be transparent in this. After all, customers appreciate and expect this from organizations. Sustainability is no longer just a USP, it will become a requirement in 2020.
4. Meeting the needs of the next generation
Flexible and remote work plays an essential role in 2020. Gen Z is entering the workplace and the arrival of this new generation will also change the role of technology. This new generation will incorporate the available technologies and policies employers pursue in their choice to get started. Being connected and flexible therefore becomes essential in recruiting the right talent. Think of linked functionalities on the shop floor, companies need hardware that has cloud capability and match the pace of the changing work ecosystem. This way, the right docking station can easily let an employee synchronize his devices and gadgets. Whereas a laptop replaced the fixed PC in ease of use at the time, the docking station will make a desk full of cables superfluous.
5. The role of the IT supplier is changing
Because both large and small organizations are turning to leaner models and processes to achieve optimum business efficiency, the amount of time and budget available for training and development can be limited. If fewer people are needed to do more, this means that companies will increasingly rely on their IT suppliers to train and guide them with the most suitable technology for integration into and outside the workplace. Companies that purchase IT devices and accessories for the workplace face an overwhelming possibility of choices that can ultimately be quite confusing.
In 2020 we will increasingly see existing IT suppliers as an extension of the organization. They provide valuable advice and help companies determine how technology can best add value to their activities.