Assignment:
Discuss some of the emerging trends in information technology (e.g. computer hardware, software, data analysis). What impact may they have on your daily life (e.g., workplace, school, recreation)? Min 150 words
After your initial post, respond to at least two of your classmates. 2-3 sentences
POST 1
Although there are many emerging trends in information technology today, there are a few that resonate with me because I think they will play a major role in how technology affects our lives in the near future. The three trends that I identified are AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), and 5G. I expect these three areas of research to really take off in the next few years, dramatically changing the way we use technology in our daily routine.
Although AI has been around for decades, we are finally at the point where we are starting to see actual integration into our lives. Machines can now "think" and respond based on how humans behave. We're all familiar with Apple's "Siri", which may be the most commercialized form of AI today. Tesla and other auto makers have also been able to integrate AI into cars, giving them the ability to "self-drive". The possibilities are endless, but I expect AI to really take off in the next several years.
Similar to AI, the Internet of Things has been around for awhile but has really taken the world by storm over the last decade. The demand for automation and wireless capability is at an all time high. People can now unlock their doors, check contents of their refrigerators, adjust their thermostat, and even preheat their oven remotely thanks to IoT technology. It's not uncommon for households to have 20+ devices connected to their wireless network today. IoT will continue to be a major trend in the near future as we are still at the beginning stages of what's possible.
With the demand for automation and connectivity increasing, the need for greater wireless networks has increased as well. 5G networks will be able to support the needs of tomorrow's technology. Speeds with 5G networks are ridiculously faster than that of 4G networks. 5G also allows for increased public safety by being able to support higher resolution traffic and security cameras as well as faster detection and dispatch times for emergency services.
POST 2
I have been most effected by the emergence of zoom, teams, and slack for meetings and collaboration. Since the start of the pandemic, most workplace collaboration has been done online. Teams has been a great tool to combine instant messaging, file sharing, groups, and even a social aspect in a collaborative work setting. Not only has video and voice calling been an asset, you can also create groups for something specific and have the members chat, gather data and files, and create presentations all from within teams. This update provides one central and communicative place to work on projects with others while staying remote. Now, 18 months after the start of the pandemic, I noticed that my company is continuing to use teams and zoom in the same way now that we have partially returned to work. Using online platforms to replace in-person meetings and collaborations is a huge time saver for many, especially because of the reduced need to travel. Eventually, I would not be surprised if teams evolved to support the running of a full business operation and eliminating the need for emails in certain industries. (Okay or maybe reducing them dramatically!)