It’s never easy to predict what the future will hold. That’s true even if you’re only looking forward a few months. After all, how many of us anticipated that 2020 would end with many of us grocery shopping through plexiglass barriers and industrial-strength masks?
No matter how unpredictable and disruptive the world might be, though, there are some trends you can spot from miles away. With that in mind, let’s look at seven topics that will continue to be big – or in some cases bigger – in 2021 and beyond…
#1 Online Connectivity for Meetings
Once public health concerns recede, a lot of meetings and gatherings are going to go back to normal. Some won’t, though. Instead, entrepreneurs and organizers are going to realize that getting together virtually saves time, money, and travel. Smart businesses will start adjusting their plans and technology accordingly.
#2 Mobile Working and Entertainment
More and more of our lives are being spent online. We work through the web, entertain ourselves with streaming services, and even do our weekly shopping over the internet. However, fewer of us are using computers for any of these tasks. Phones and tablets are now the tools of choice and will probably continue to be so for years to come.
#3 Stronger Online Security
From ransomware to credit card theft, scammers are always looking for new ways to steal from businesses and their customers. When they are successful, though, the public puts the blame on businesses rather than the criminals. For that reason, a good online defense is important to maintaining the right reputation with buyers.
#4 Information Automation
We have reached the point where computers can do certain tasks (like data collection and analysis) faster and more effectively than humans could ever hope to. Now, that automation is spreading to new areas of finance and marketing. Smart business owners and executives are staying ahead of that efficiency curve.
#5 Live Virtual Support
Having more online customer support means buyers can get the information they need had virtually any time of the day or night. It also means you can give them the convenience they crave while lowering your customer service costs. That’s a win-win solution and a trend that will likely continue for the foreseeable future.
#6 Flexible IT Budgeting
One of the big lessons that 2020 taught us was that you really don’t want to be over-invested in any part of your business. With cloud software subscriptions, hardware leasing, and managed services for IT support, you can trade big commitments and expenditures for predictable monthly payments. Why pay for what you don’t need?
#7 Better IT Care and Service
There was a time when IT vendors could get away with being rude and unresponsive as long as they had the right technical skills. That won’t cut it anymore in today’s competitive market. You should expect high-level IT expertise and service that is fast, friendly, and responsive.
Ready to See Your Business Grow in 2021?
How you feel about technology trends probably depends on whether you’re ahead of your competitors or struggling to keep up with them. For the very best in IT service, advice, and pricing, contact our team today to schedule a free consultation and see how we can help!