Business leaders are often hesitant to integrate new, emerging technologies into their Digital Transformation projects and for good reason. Some technologies are unproven or there may be some “unknowns” that make for understandable nervousness. That said, there are significant benefits to being an early adopter of new innovative tech, prompting many companies to take the leap by integrating emerging technologies into their Digital Transformation projects.
Artificial intelligence or AI is a perfect example of a new, emerging technology that has taken the world by storm. We’re seeing AI references virtually everywhere. Even the SAG-AFTRA strike negotiators are discussing AI and its impact on their work. There are tools like DALI-2, which allows you to generate incredible images using AI technology. And don’t forget AI-powered editing tools on stock image sites, website SEO plugins and everything in between. It’s not just limited to ChatGPT anymore; AI has officially “arrived” — and it’s driven home by the point that legislators are now working to establish “guardrails” in an attempt to keep AI under control.
The proliferation of AI has been rather remarkable thus far, offering a great example of how new technology — when used in a well thought-out manner — can drive success. Conversely, integrating a new technology just for the sake of seeming to be innovative can be quite costly.
Considerations for Digital Transformation Projects That Leverage Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies abound, there are many considerations to keep in mind as you integrate these up-and-coming technologies into your next Digital Transformation project. Let’s look at a few of these points so that you can maximize your chances of success.
- Is the Technology Really Useful? – Don’t integrate an emerging technology solely for the novelty of integrating a new, emerging technology. Does the feature or functionality really deliver a benefit or advantage to the user? Or is it extraneous at best, distracting at worst? Be honest with yourself and opt for technologies that really bring a benefit to your Digital Transformation project. If you’re uncertain, consider using a focus group with actual users who can provide honest feedback and opinions.
- What’s Required to Maintain Your Platform? – Long term maintenance should always be a consideration, whether you’re developing a mobile app or an enterprise software system. But with a new technology, the full extent of those maintenance requirements may be largely unknown. For this reason, it is prudent to overestimate the long term maintenance costs. Also, take time to research what measures will be required to maintain your platform. Do you have the in-house resources to maintain the system? Does your development team have the ability to maintain the platform on a long term basis? These are important questions that are essential for achieving a good ROI both in the short term and on a long term basis.
- What’s Available in Terms of Training? – User training is essential for a successful deployment and roll-out. But it may be difficult to find trainers who are experienced with a new, emerging technology. This can lead to a situation where you’ve got a shiny new and highly innovative platform that nobody knows how to use. Before you integrate the latest and greatest technology into your next Digital Transformation project, make sure you can find the training resources that you need to succeed.
- Does Your Developer Have the Right Experience? – The problem with new technologies is that you may have a hard time finding a developer that has worked with an emerging technology. This can make for a difficult development experience and the end result may be subpar. Take time to find a development team that has worked with the technology that you’re seeking to integrate. Ask for work samples and references from past clients. This way, you can proceed with confidence that your Digital Transformation development team can deliver in a way that meets or exceeds your expectations.
At 7T, we specialize in emerging technologies such as AI, giving our clients a leg up on the competition since we can integrate artificial intelligence in some very innovative ways. We support early adopters and know what it takes to succeed, whether you’re striving to boost productivity, elevate profits and engage users like never before.
Digital Transformation With Business Software for Maximum ROI
At 7T, we specialize in Digital Transformation, using a collaborative development process that engages the client from the discovery phase to deployment. Our many Digital Transformation service offerings include process automation solutions, enterprise software development for ERP and CRM systems (among others), along with SaaS development for web apps and mobile apps, amongst others. We have extensive experience working with new, emerging and cutting-edge technologies like AI, giving early adopters an opportunity to leverage innovation in a way that maximizes ROI.
We’re guided by the approach of “Digital Transformation Driven by Business Strategy.” As such, the 7T development team works with company leaders who are seeking to solve problems and drive ROI through Digital Transformation and innovation. We then provide collaborative, multi-phased and impactful Digital Transformation solutions.
7T has offices in Dallas, Houston and Austin, but our clientele spans the globe. If you’re ready to learn more about AI and how to integrate this or other emerging technologies in your next Digital Transformation development project, contact 7T today.
