One of the hottest tech topics of 2020 was 5G – the next-generation wireless data service that promised faster speeds and more coverage. As 2020 comes to a close, people are curious about the big ideas in IT and small business technology coming in 2021.
Pegasus Technologies monitors the technology trends that affect small business owners. Let’s take a look at the five emerging trends you should pay attention to in 2021 and beyond.
1. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
From predictive marketing to automatic inventory analysis, businesses turn to machine learning and artificial intelligence to help them work smarter. Look for “big data” organizations like Google and Amazon Web Services to leverage their massive computing power to provide managed ML and AI services at scale.
2. Cloud-Based Email and Software
Over the past few years, companies have discovered the convenience and security of hosting their email and software applications in the cloud. Look for more companies to move their email, file sharing, and business applications to cloud-based models in 2021. It’s a cost-effective way to manage your information architecture.
3. One of the Most Important Technology Trends: Backup and Recovery
Ransomware attacks, data breaches, viruses, and aging hardware all result in data loss. In some cases, the loss of your files can be a catastrophic event with significant financial consequences.
In 2021, there will be a renewed emphasis on protecting your company and customer data. Backup and recovery systems are essential to ensure your business can be up and running even if there is a data disaster.
4. Remote Work and Collaboration
The global COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of people to work from home during 2020. As companies assess their staffing scenarios in 2021, remote work will continue to be a necessity. Making sure employees are productive, and their data is secure will be equally important.
Look for more technologies that enable remote collaboration. We’re talking about more than video calls and sharing files. 2021 will be the year when companies plan for what’s next with cloud-based IT services, remote access, and cybersecurity planning.
5. Automation
The days of doing the same thing over and over are over. Companies are operating with fewer resources, smaller staffs, and leaner budgets. It will be essential for businesses to automate as many processes as possible.
Look for organizations to streamline their technology stack, reduce the number of platforms they use, and consolidate as many platforms as they can. CRM tools, outbound marketing packages, scheduling, billing, and other enterprise operations will be migrated to a single software solution.
Technology Is an Essential Service
Many industries are deemed essential, especially during times like these. For businesses to survive and grow in the coming decade, technology will be the key to sustainable growth.
The technology trends we are tracking for 2021 will help businesses integrate and consolidate their operations. Working remotely and securely will continue to be the norm. Protecting your data and your customer data will be more important than ever.
To learn more about emerging tech trends and make sure your IT infrastructure is ready for what’s next, contact Pegasus Technologies today.
Pegasus Technologies is the IT Team for organizations that don’t need a full-time IT department. Our technology experts build you a technology plan to keep your business running at its best. We have offices in Kennett Square, PA, Media, PA, and Wayne, PA to provide better computer support and IT services to you.
