Technology trends you should know about whatever industry you work in

You cannot fail to have noticed the advancements in technology over recent years. Computers and robots have become more intelligent and their influence in the world is far reaching. This range of reach means that there are several technology trends which you need to know about, no matter what industry you work in.
Training courses, such as Certificate III in Information, Digital, Media and Technology provide with the information you need regarding the way technology affects industries. Let's take a look at some of the trends you may discover as part of this type of training.

Internet of Things (IOT)
The Internet of Things (IOT) has become an increasingly familiar term over recent years. It refers to the connectivity of devices to the Internet and each other. IOT has many positive applications across different industries including:

• Improved engagement with customers and data regarding the engagement.
• Sensors providing messages when connected items require servicing or repair.
• Improved management of manufacturing processes.
• Improved supply chain management with the use of sensors.

The ability to connect items in the physical world with the digital world and with each other has the promise to improve efficiency across all industries.

Machine Learning
Machine learning means that computers can learn from the data and patterns that they have access to. This means that they can complete tasks, and produce results, without having received direct instruction. Machine learning is being used in several industries in areas such as:

• Helping to improve manufacturing processes.
• Personalising customer experience.
• Improving interaction with customers through more detailed social media analytics.

Machines being able to learn from data and patterns reduces the need for human interaction in processes, thereby improving levels of efficiency.

Virtual reality (VR)
Technology has come a long way since the science fiction movies of the 70s and 80s when the immersive virtual reality (VR) experience we can enjoy today was still confined to the imagination. The concept of VR has been around since the middle of the 20^th century, but it's only over recent years that the full capabilities of this technology have started to be realised.

Industries such as marketing have embraced the use of VR technology to immerse customers in the story of a brand and in journeys such as designing a kitchen. The potential uses of VR extend way beyond the realm of marketing, into areas such as medicine, where the ability to use VR in the teaching of procedures is a significant advance.

Cognitive Technology
Machine learning is one area of cognitive technology, an overarching title that includes aspects such as natural language processing, speech recognition, and robotics. This type of technology enables various forms of artificial intelligence to complete tasks that would previously have required the skills of a human. The use of cognitive technology means that certain repetitive or dangerous tasks can be removed totally, or partially, from the hands of humans.
 
These technology trends will help to shape the future in all industries. This is why you should be aware of them, no matter what your occupation is.