4 emerging technology trends in business

As hybrid working models continue to evolve, so does demand for the technologies that drive them. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing solutions, the Internet of Things, and advanced connectivity through 5G and WiFi 6 are reshaping how businesses operate. Combined with comprehensive managed IT services, these technologies create the foundation for competitive advantage in today's dynamic market. Here's why you should be adopting these essential technology trends in your business, and what to expect as hybrid work environments continue to mature.

1. Artificial intelligence and intelligent automation

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from an emerging technology to a business essential. With organisations increasingly adopting intelligent automation to streamline operations and enhance decision-making, AI's capabilities have become central to business success. According to McKinsey's latest research, 88% of organisations now regularly use AI in at least one business function. Businesses are leveraging AI for customer service, advanced personalisation and predictive analytics. Real-time data allows organisations to respond instantly to changes in their customers' behaviours, even predicting future needs and preferences. Customer experience remains the leading driver of AI adoption by businesses, with organisations reporting significant improvements in innovation, competitiveness, profit margins and employee experience.

Whether it's automated document processing, intelligent chatbots that provide personalised customer support, or smart workflow routing, there are numerous ways that AI can enhance your operations. Modern process automation services include intelligent document capture that automatically classifies and extracts data from invoices, contracts and forms; predictive analytics that forecast demand and optimise inventory; and natural language processing that enables advanced search capabilities across enterprise content repositories.

Organisations implementing AI-powered automation are seeing measurable benefits: reduced processing times, lower error rates, improved compliance and freed-up staff capacity for higher-value work. Solutions like KESTO invoice automation demonstrate how targeted automation can transform specific business processes, reducing manual data entry and accelerating approval workflows. The technology continues to advance, with machine learning models becoming more accurate and accessible to businesses of all sizes.

2. Internet of Things and device management

The Internet of Things (IoT) has expanded far beyond personal phones and tablets in the workplace. Smart watches, fitness bands, virtual assistants, sensors, connected printers and a growing array of intelligent devices now form part of the modern business ecosystem. Industry analysts predict continued growth in enterprise IoT applications, including smart building management, asset tracking and predictive maintenance systems.

Your business data is accessible through an increasing number of internet-connected devices, each with varying security profiles. Having robust device management and security policies is essential. A comprehensive approach to IoT and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) management allows employees to leverage connected devices effectively while protecting sensitive business information. This includes mobile device management (MDM) solutions, network segmentation, regular security audits and clear policies around device usage and data access.

Kyocera ICT Services provide end-to-end device management and security solutions, helping organisations secure their connected environments whilst maintaining the flexibility that modern workers require. From secure printing infrastructure to comprehensive network security solutions, professional ICT services ensure your technology investment delivers value without compromising protection.

3. Cloud technology and SaaS platforms

Cloud adoption continues its upward trajectory as businesses recognise the scalability, accessibility and cost-effectiveness of cloud-based solutions. According to Gartner's forecast, worldwide public cloud spending is projected to reach $723.4 billion in 2025, with organisations increasingly adopting multi-cloud strategies to optimise performance, cost and resilience. Many businesses now use multiple cloud services, contributing to what industry analysts call the 'digital workplace'—a collection of software-as-a-service (SaaS) tools combined to create a comprehensive digital office environment supporting employee productivity, communication and collaboration.

Modern cloud platforms offer far more than simple storage. Advanced features include automated backup and disaster recovery, sophisticated access controls, compliance management tools, AI-powered analytics and seamless integration between different business applications. Cloud-based document management systems enable teams to collaborate on files in real-time regardless of location, whilst automated workflows ensure consistent processes across the organisation.

As cloud technology matures, providers continue to enhance their offerings with improved mobility features, built-in AI capabilities and enhanced security measures to support distributed workforces. Print management software delivered through the cloud exemplifies this evolution, allowing IT teams to manage printing infrastructure remotely while providing users with seamless access to print resources from any location. Cloud-native applications designed specifically for modern work patterns are becoming the standard, replacing traditional on-premises software.

4. Advanced connectivity: 5G and WiFi 6

Fast, reliable internet connectivity has become critical business infrastructure. Remote working, cloud computing and video collaboration all depend on network speed and stability. The combination of 5G and WiFi 6 creates the robust connectivity foundation that modern businesses require. According to industry research, 5G networks offer speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, with lower latency and greater capacity. The WiFi 6 market is projected to grow at 14.6% annually through 2030, delivering approximately three times the speed of WiFi 5, with better performance in device-dense environments.

These connectivity advances enable new business applications and improved user experiences. Video conferencing becomes smoother with higher quality. Large file transfers complete in seconds rather than minutes. Cloud applications respond instantly. IoT devices communicate more reliably. Modern office printers and multifunction devices leverage these faster networks to deliver instant print job processing, real-time status updates and seamless mobile printing capabilities. Virtual and augmented reality applications become practical for training, design review and remote assistance.

When investing in new technology infrastructure, ensuring 5G and WiFi 6 compatibility future-proofs your operations and maximises return on investment. This is particularly important for businesses supporting hybrid work models, where consistent connectivity across home, office and mobile environments directly impacts productivity and employee satisfaction.

Rapid changes in the business landscape and continued advancement of digital technologies are reshaping how we work. Organisations that strategically adopt these technologies—supported by expert managed IT services and comprehensive ICT solutions—position themselves for sustained success in an increasingly competitive market.

Explore how intelligent automation platforms and cloud-powered business solutions can transform your operations and prepare your organisation for the future of work.

KYOCERA Document Solutions provides document management solutions with long-life print technology that delivers greater productivity, reliability and uptime.