In our previous article, we discussed ways in which the world of technology is set to develop the skill sets of those in IT jobs in New Zealand.
The world is an increasingly connected place and new trends seem to reach the market on a daily basis. However, knowing which of these are mere flashes in the pan and which are valuable skills in which to invest your time is essential. For an IT contractor, it could mean the difference between securing that lucrative work contract or going home empty handed.
Fortunately, Gartner has identified its 10 technology trends for 2015. Here are the top 5 IT advancements to look out for as we enter the new year:
5: Context-rich systems
It is not enough for a computer system to operate in the wider world. Refining systems to be aware of their surroundings will improve the computing process.
Context-aware security, for example, will protect businesses from specific risks dependent on things such as location, resources and type of industry.
4: Advanced, pervasive and invisible analytics
Analytics will expand greatly in 2015. In fact, such is the growth that many consumers may not realise their products are relying on them.
Invisible analytics will become more ingrained at all levels, with Gartner Vice President David Cearley explaining: "Every app now needs to be an analytic app."
3: 3D printing
3D printers (3DP) have boldly come to the fore in 2014. Next year will see the technology grow by a huge 98 per cent, Gartner predicts.
With 3DP shipments set to double again in 2016, the next 12 months will prove pivotal for the development of the game-changing manufacturing technology.
2: The Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) has been a long time in gestation, though Gartner places it highly as a key development in 2015.
With more devices interconnected and sharing data independently, businesses will need professionals to ensure there are no weak links in the vast network.
1: Computing Everywhere
Mobile devices will continue to dominate the market, and wearables will also begin to play a much greater role in computing.
As Mr Cearley put it: "Increasingly, it's the overall environment that will need to adapt to the requirements of the mobile user. This will continue to raise significant management challenges for IT organisations as they lose control of user endpoint devices. It will also require increased attention to user experience design."
