Analog transformation is the future (so start thinking now)
Quantum computing is one of the biggest-ever shifts in innovation, and in some ways it can be seen as analog (we can debate about this if you like, but read on first).
Our colleagues at IBM Quantum are working at the cutting edge of this technology, which uses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems too complex for classical computers – and solve them fast. Currently, quantum computing is being used in applications ranging from electric vehicle battery innovation to LNG logistics optimisation.
Quantum computing will become widely available and affordable faster than you think. And it will blow ‘traditional’ digital technologies and ways of working out of the water. So instead of getting bogged down in digital transformation that doesn’t work, the effort and investment are better spent starting an analog transformation.
What is analog transformation?
One example of Analog transformation is the process of getting the business ready for quantum computing, which will have a dramatic impact on operations.
Questions that involve complex, dynamic and interconnected systems and variables will be solvable in an instant – meaning areas such as customer experience, risk management, logistics, supply chain management and service delivery will be transformed. Think of it this way: any business question or process that currently involves assumptions, estimates, compromises and/or margins of error has the potential to be revolutionised.
And the business needs to prepare for that.
What does successful analog transformation look like?
At the most basic level, successful analog transformation is about implementing AI and machine learning in a responsible, safe and profitable way.
With quantum computing, the business will have back-end systems that are good listeners – that, through effective DevSecOps, give people a tech foundation that continually serves up the processes and systems they need in the moment. Essentially, those back-end systems will evolve themselves to enable people to innovate around customer experience, operations, services, products and more.
How do you get started with analog transformation?
We don’t pretend to be an oracle here, because it’s so new that no one has all the answers. Here’s what we do know:
- Analog transformation needs to be people-centric, not technology-centric – because, ultimately, it’s about people knowing what to do with the processes and systems the quantum computing tech foundation will serve up. Major frustrations CxOs experience around slow/failed digital transformations relate to cultural debt rather than technical debt, and that will be insurmountable with quantum if not tackled head on
- Ethical considerations must be central – it’s the whole ‘with great power comes great responsibility’ thing. The power you get with quantum has the potential to impact customers, employees and the wider communities you’re part of. Organisations will need to understand why and how AI makes the decisions it does, so everyone can trust in its safety and reliability
Can you afford to end up a day late and a dollar short?
No question we’re at an early stage with all things quantum computing. But we know quantum is the future and it will be here faster than everyone thinks. Organisations won’t be able to keep up with their markets or customers if we don’t start having these conversations.
So let’s get these conversations started.
What do you think about the analog future?
