What emerging technologies should boards be aware of to stay ahead in digital transformation efforts?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of digital transformation, offering capabilities that range from predictive analytics to automated decision-making. According to Gartner, AI augmentation will create $2.9 trillion of business value and 6.2 billion hours of worker productivity globally. Organizations are leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences, optimize supply chains, and create smarter products. For example, in the retail sector, AI is used for personalized shopping experiences, predicting trends, and managing inventory more efficiently.

Boards should consider how AI can be integrated into their strategic planning to drive innovation and efficiency. This might involve investments in AI technologies, partnerships with AI-focused startups, or the development of in-house AI capabilities. Additionally, understanding the ethical implications and regulatory considerations of AI is crucial for boards to navigate potential risks and ensure responsible use of the technology.

Real-world examples of AI and ML adoption include healthcare organizations using AI for diagnostic assistance and personalized treatment plans, and financial services firms utilizing ML for fraud detection and risk management. These examples highlight the transformative potential of AI across industries, underscoring the importance for boards to actively engage in discussions around AI strategy and implementation.

Blockchain technology, best known for its role in cryptocurrencies, offers far more in terms of operational transparency, security, and efficiency. It provides a decentralized ledger that can revolutionize supply chain management, contract execution, and secure transactions. According to Deloitte's 2020 Global Blockchain Survey, 55% of respondents stated that blockchain is critical and in their top-five strategic priorities. This underscores the growing recognition of blockchain's potential beyond its initial financial applications to broader business impacts.

For boards, understanding blockchain's implications for their organization involves recognizing its potential to streamline operations, reduce fraud, and enhance customer trust. Boards should consider how blockchain can be applied within their industry context, whether in tracking the provenance of goods in the supply chain, enabling smart contracts, or securing sensitive data. Furthermore, exploring blockchain requires a careful assessment of the technology's maturity, regulatory environment, and integration with existing systems.

Real-world applications of blockchain technology include its use in the pharmaceutical industry to track and verify the authenticity of drugs, thereby combating counterfeiting. In the food industry, companies like Walmart have implemented blockchain to trace the origin of food products, significantly improving food safety and supply chain transparency. These examples demonstrate blockchain's potential to add value in various sectors, making it a critical area for board-level consideration.

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects physical devices to the internet, collecting and sharing data to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and create new business models. Gartner predicts that the enterprise and automotive sectors will account for 5.8 billion IoT endpoints in 2020, a 21% increase from 2019. This rapid growth highlights the expanding role of IoT in transforming business operations and customer experiences. Organizations are using IoT to monitor equipment, optimize logistics, improve workplace safety, and personalize customer interactions.

Boards should evaluate the opportunities IoT presents for creating value and achieving Operational Excellence. This involves not only understanding the technology itself but also considering the data strategy and cybersecurity implications of deploying IoT solutions. Strategic investments in IoT can enable organizations to gain insights into operations, customer behavior, and market trends, driving informed decision-making and innovation.

Examples of IoT in action include smart factories using IoT sensors to monitor and optimize manufacturing processes, reducing downtime and improving productivity. In the consumer sector, smart home devices offer users convenience and energy efficiency, while providing companies with valuable data on user preferences and behavior. These examples illustrate the diverse applications of IoT and the importance of board-level engagement in shaping an organization's IoT strategy.