As organizations continue to navigate through the economic challenges facing them in 2022 and look to boost operations and increase profitability in the new year, there are key technology trends to focus on.

Patrick Ede, Director of ICT Operations at PPC Limited, who gave an insight into these trends, said they will help CTOs, IT managers or CIOs to improve business operations and achieve greater higher productivity and corporate profitability.

PPC Limited is one of the ICT and infrastructure development companies in Nigeria.

Ede, said: “This year’s predictions highlight some key aspects of hardware and software technologies that IT managers must prioritize in their strategy to remain competitive over the next 12 months.”

He listed them to include, smart technologies, 5G network, clean climate technologies, collaborative tools, cybersecurity and cloud.

He noted that smart technologies have a transformative effect wherever they are applied.” This year, both organizations and governments will take advantage of the benefits they offer. In smart cities, the application of IoT and other smart systems will ensure that the needs of citizens are met through seamless communication, connected transportation systems, public lighting, security, and traffic control. In buildings, smart devices using artificial intelligence can prevent unauthorized access, track assets, and improve overall security. Efficiency, productivity and increased uptime will greatly improve with the use of fully integrated manufacturing systems using AI, IoT and other cloud-based applications that can be managed from any location.”

Ede also said that the launch and availability of the 5G network will greatly improve broadband access for various secure and mission-critical operations. In 2023, Nigeria and three other sub-Saharan African countries are projected to see increased 5G adoption. 5G consumer devices are already available in these countries, which in turn are facilitating greater uptake.

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“Enhanced speed and low latency 5G offerings will open up new prospects of possibilities for better industrial operations and further drive investment in the entertainment industry. The resulting breakthrough will be driven by extended reality, augmented reality, virtual reality, and ultra-high-density video. Energy companies will benefit from real-time monitoring of assets, energy usage and improved revenue through access to the 5G network.”

On clean climate technologies, he said that climate change advocacy and the commitment by organizations to rethink their operations while reducing their carbon footprint will encourage investment in clean technologies that reduce environmental impact and ensure energy efficiency. These technologies include renewable energy systems and smart lighting.

About collaborative tools. The remote or flexible work model is here to stay. Workplaces will continue to develop flexible work structures and invest in collaborative tools that make communication seamless.

Regarding cybersecurity, he said that as organizations continue to build their digital capacity, privacy and data protection are vital. “While much attention is paid to cyber protection, organizations must build cyber resiliency capabilities in the event of an actual attack or failure. Staff training on web security along with data recovery and continuity efforts should not take a backseat.”

In the cloud, more companies will be migrating their storage to the cloud this year as it is posited as a critical aspect of digital transformation. Cloud products and services support remote or hybrid workplaces and ensure data privacy while providing scalability, speed and cost savings.

Ede added: “While the list is not exhaustive, these are critical areas that decision makers need to tap into to increase productivity, profitability and continued relevance.”