In today’s internet-obsessed world, the role of technology is continuously evolving. Every month, week or even day brings something new to the market, innovations that will change the way we work and developments that will make the chaos of modern day life easier to handle. As a leading IT support provider we make it our mission to keep up with the latest developments in technology so our clients don’t have to. As well as using tried and tested techniques and tools, and calling upon best practice, to ensure the highest standard of service possible, we utilise the latest advancements to future-proof our client’s IT infrastructures further.

With 2019 on the horizon, we thought we’d take a look into the not-so-distant future to bring you details of the tech trends that are set to dominate in the New Year.

AI will be a key driver of business transformation

Digital technology is one thing that has transformed the way we do business. Whatever your business size or niche, digital certainly plays a part in its operations, whether you’re a primarily bricks and mortar based store with a Facebook page as its only online presence or purely based online thanks to your snazzy, all-singing, all-dancing e-commerce website. Digital transformation has been big news for numerous organisations in recent years. With the use of artificial intelligence (AI) becoming more widespread throughout the corporate world, businesses will soon have the most accurate market and customer information available to drive their businesses forward.

According to this report from Gartner, AI will be used by some 40% of businesses to automate processes at all levels in 2019. The use of AI is set to unlock many benefits as a result, with customer experiences being improved for the better, new revenue streams able to be unlocked, and cost reductions able to be made across existing products or services.

Blockchain technology will go beyond Bitcoin

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have no doubt received their fair share of bad press, but with the evolution of blockchain, this type of technology is increasingly being used for good. The use of blockchain technology is set to explode in 2019 with the unfathomable security credentials of the network providing a greater form of protection for organisations that process even the most sensitive data.

For those of you who don’t know, blockchain is a peer-to-peer network of interconnected computers. The network can be used to store data that can’t be modified or stolen, ensuring vital defence against hackers, fraudsters and other cyber criminals. Blockchain is already been used and developed further by a number of organisations, including those in the healthcare and financial services industries. Microsoft and Amazon also have their hands in blockchain tech development at the moment.

Apps will get more progressive and intelligent

Mobile browsing isn’t going away. In fact, as of this year, mobile usage has overtaken desktop usage when browsing and buying from the net. With that the website apps we supply as businesses must continue to deliver, whatever device is being used. Known as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), apps are expected to become even more intelligent, playing a more native role when in use. Like native mobile apps, PWAs will be displayed on a device’s homepage, and will have the ability to send push notifications and integrate into a system’s settings.

Want to know more about the tech trends to expect during 2019 and beyond? Keep up to date with the latest on our blog.