New Technology Buzzwords Explained

There seems to be a new buzzword introduced every other day in the world of technology. Trying to keep up with all of these terms can be pretty overwhelming (even for those in the industry), but we're here to make this task a bit easier and a little less stressful for you. We tackle some of the latest, obscure, and downright confusing technology buzzwords to make understanding this information just a bit easier.

What Does "Cloud-First" Mean?

The cloud has been one of the most discussed buzzwords in the past couple of decades because it evolves. Most people only know the cloud as a form of online data storage or an online data center, but today the cloud has progressed into much more. The cloud refers to services and software that can be accessed and utilized through the internet.

Users can access many different services and software from their homes through cloud services. Users can utilize everything from artificial intelligence, networks, disaster recovery, and more—all through the internet.

A "cloud-first" strategy is where a team primarily uses a cloud-computing platform for most of their infrastructure. The idea is to use cloud services for as many things as possible. Because many services, applications, and tasks can be made utilizing the cloud—it can be more convenient for the team.

Applying cloud services for these aspects can be more cost-effective. A cloud-first approach can be a good option if the team doesn't want to commit to a cloud-only strategy. 

What Is "Disruptive Technology?"

Another term that could be somewhat confusing is "disruptive technology." This term was coined by Clayton Christensen, a professor at Harvard, in his book "The Innovators Dilemma." This concept separates new technology into two distinct categories. The first category is "sustaining," and the second is "disruptive."

Both of these categories refer to new technologies, but the main difference is how the technology improves upon existing technology. A sustaining technology uses gradual changes to existing established technology. Disruptive technology is similar, but the improvements need refinement.

When this type of technology is introduced, there could also be some performance issues. It may also only be an attractive option to a small group of people and may need to prove its practical application to the masses.

There are several examples of disruptive technology. While many of these examples are now standard everyday technologies we use today, this wasn't always the case. The first is "PC" or personal computer.

This is one of the most common technologies that could be found in many households, but at the time of its introduction, many people didn't believe it could take the place of the typewriter. This brings us to the following example, "Email." The world used to communicate using only handwritten (or typewriter written) letters.

The PC and Email changed the way we communicate. This is also true for laptop computers replacing the PC and smartphones replacing PDAs. While these are all technologies ingrained in our everyday lives, they could be considered disruptive technology when they were first introduced. 

What Is "Shadow IT?"

Shadow IT is another term that may be confused by some. The term refers to the idea of Information Technology projects that are accomplished outside of the knowledge or control of the IT department.

Shadow IT has been more prevalent, particularly as a good percentage of the workforce continues to work remotely. Shadow IT can be a beneficial option for many companies but should be done with caution as it could introduce some security issues.

Several examples of Shadow IT include Third-Party Software used to communicate amongst the team, unauthorized use of personal devices, and personal email accounts used to conduct business.

Without proper care, these examples can create cybersecurity risks for the company. This is especially true when it comes to the healthcare, finance, and legal industries. Modern businesses will continue to incorporate Shadow IT, especially because many companies continue to use remote workers.

Companies should educate their workers on how to keep company information protected. This article demonstrates how to secure remote workers against cybersecurity threats.

What Is "Data Strategy?"

The modern world revolves around data. Most companies in many different industries use data in some capacity. There is data being collected and used to help businesses improve and grow in a multitude of ways.

A data strategy refers to the different guidelines, instruments, and practices used to show a company where it can improve. Applying a data strategy can be used to help a company build a plan to grow and innovate.

Data strategy unlocks the power of data. Knowledge is power, and using this information about your company can help it grow. After the data is collected, it will need to be studied and applied to see where it can help the company. Several factors need to be considered when building a data strategy.

The data strategy should align with a company's business strategy. Companies should understand the various roles that pertain to a data strategy. Depending on the company, this could include data analysts, data engineers, and data scientists. Understanding these roles and what your company needs is essential.

Managing data and the technology used to gather the data is also an important thing to understand. There are many moving parts when it comes to managing data and implementing a data strategy. Partnering with a trusted data center provider can be beneficial for many different reasons. Because the modern world revolves around data, companies should look into utilizing a data strategy.

Conclusion

The world not only revolves around data, but it also revolves around technology in general. Technology continues to change fast, and understanding all of the terms can be complex. Cloud First, Disruptive Technology, Shadow IT, and Data Strategy are terms that many businesses use and concepts that many industries are utilizing. Knowledge is power, and now you may be familiar with some of the current technology buzzwords.