Massive power enables the application of evolutionary hardware and software design techniques. Complex systems such as weather, economics, and human health may be simulated, analyzed, and understood at a level once unimaginable. Disruptive technologies compete with and often displace incumbents, who must buy new entrants to stay in the game. The current popular fascination with e-Business is only the beginning of a period of major disruptive change sweeping across most industries. Net-based marketing, sales, and support shake up distribution channels and foster the growth of new ones.
Most companies manage a complex mix of direct and indirect channels.
Systems integrators, integrated e-Business applications, and middleware are critical to success. Summary The only thing predictable about the future of IT is that it will be faster, cheaper, and different. But short of knowing the future, IT professionals can start to recognize patterns in rapid IT developments that help them to recognize important trends early on. This article outlined four possible directions for IT evolution that could at least change your organization's strategic priorities in the IT function, and possibly after the strategic direction of your company or industry.