Computing in 2020
Now that 2010 is a much forgotten history, many of us are now looking forward to year 2020. What new trends will lead us into 2020 and what new technologies will emerge that will change the way we do business. Some experts are sceptic if IT department will even be part of most organization. Others believe that although IT departments will be a major player in the organization but their focus will shift to more productive tasks.
The baby boomers can vouch how much business environment has changed in the last two decades. Not all for the better. Technology has changed the way we conduct business. What are the normal business hours? Or what is the acceptable turnaround time? It’s all a blur. Most business users are now working harder, longer hours, and under greater stress. Is it going to change for the better or worse? Only time will tell.
These are some of my predictions:
- Tablet based computers will replace desktops, laptops, and mobile phones both at office and at home.
- Organization will no longer purchase any servers. They will run most of their business applications on third party servers located in server farms. Cloud computing will become the new reality.
- All cellular phones will have WIFI capability. Features like video calling a standard feature on most mobile devices.
- TVs and monitors with Bluetooth or wireless connectivity would play whatever you want using any device or internet.
- Cable TV will be replaced with Internet TV. This is already a reality.
- Biggest IT expenditure will be on data and network security, and application development.
- More than 75% of businesses will have a Facebook page.
- Majority of cars will come with onboard computer with Voice prompt capability, just like Kit from Knight Rider. Computers will be able to aid in driving.
- Data usage will increase by 1000 times. No more hard wired networks.
- Large cities will offer free WIFI to its residents.
- Most baby boomers would have retired. New workforce will be more computer savvy so they will be able to deal with most of computer problems themselves.
- We would have moved to 128 bit IP addressing, Most of us will own one or many IP addresses so it will follow us wherever we go.
- Paper will be so expensive that we will be forced to move to electronic medium. No more paper money either.
- Business travel will go down due to high travel costs, strict security protocols, and better video conferencing solutions.
- Most cars will be electric or hybrid. Some trucks will have electric and hybrid engines also.
- No more cashiers; you will no longer have to scan goods at the checkout. RFID chips will automatically register, and billed to your credit card Id attached to your mobile phone.
- Average life expectancy will go up by 3-5 year on average due to health care advancements; so will the average age of retirement.
- Quality of life will further deteriorate.
- Cost of gas per litre will be close to $2. Petroleum is no longer the main fuel source.
Feel free to add to my list.