Technology has always been driven by the goal of meeting human needs and solving problems. However, we are now entering a new era where technology is focused on maximising human potential. In the coming years, businesses will have access to a powerful array of technologies that will unlock greater levels of human potential, productivity, and creativity. Early adopters and leading businesses have already set the stage for a race towards a future of enhanced value and capabilities. And their strategies are underpinned by one common thread – the technology is becoming more human.
Accenture’s Technology Vision 2024: Human by Design identifies the key technology trends that will dominate the landscape in the next 5 to 7 years. Based on surveys conducted with business executives and consumers worldwide, this report unveils a new era of technology – one that is human by design. While this technology holds immense potential for businesses, it can only be fully realised if leaders embrace it responsibly and bring everyone along on the journey.
Throughout history, humans have created technology to overcome our limitations. However, the tools we developed often lacked human-like qualities in appearance, behaviour, and usability. Now, for the first time, we are reversing this trend with the emergence of generative AI, which embodies a more human-centric approach to technology.
Human-designed technology is inherently more intuitive, intelligent, seamlessly integrated into daily life, and requires less adaptation from users. Generative AI, which operates on natural language rather than complex code, aligns more closely with our innate communication skills. This departure from traditional technologies marks what could be the most significant revolution witnessed in technology to date.
The potential benefits of responsibly deploying generative AI are immense, both for businesses and society as a whole. Early adopters and industry leaders are propelling us towards a new era characterised by value and capabilities rooted in human-centered technology. For example, certain car manufacturers are leveraging generative AI to enhance customer support by providing precise answers to vehicle-related inquiries based on owner’s manuals.
These advancements underscore why our research indicates that 89% of UK executives believe that human-centered technology will greatly expand industry opportunities. Furthermore, 82% of UK businesses view generative AI as an opportunity rather than a threat, foreseeing it as a catalyst for revenue growth rather than merely a cost-saving measure.
In addition to the potential productivity gains, generative AI is revolutionising technology accessibility. Unlike previous technologies, generative AI, especially those designed for human interactions like chatbots or AI content generators, are user-friendly and have a lower barrier to entry. These AI technologies can be accessed through familiar interfaces such as messaging platforms or web browsers, making them more accessible to a wider range of users. Unlike earlier technologies that required specialised training or programming skills, generative AI systems are designed to understand and respond to human-like conversations, enhan
cing ease of use, accessibility, and affordability. For example, the search by voice function allows people to interact with technology without the need for typing. Accenture, in collaboration with AgeUK, piloted a tool that provided elderly people with access to AI agents, offering them services they may not have had otherwise. In this new era technology is no longer reserved for technologists.
While the prospect of equitable technology access is promising, it also requires extensive education to ensure the well-being, privacy, and security of individuals. Widespread education is crucial to engage people in the journey of generative AI adoption and safeguard their interests. Businesses must prioritise building trust and curiosity around generative AI to unlock its full potential, enabling individuals from all walks of life to leverage increased productivity and creativity. By spearheading this shift towards more human-centric technologies, companies can capitalise on a wave of innovation.
With Yorkshire emerging as a thriving tech hub in the North, embracing these advancements responsibly is crucial if leaders in our region are to unlock the next level of human potential.
The technology revolution is here, and it is centered around maximising human potential. By embracing human-centric technology, businesses can unlock new levels of value, capabilities, and growth. The future is bright, and it is up to us to responsibly harness the power of technology to shape a better world for all.
As part of Leeds Digital Festival 2024, Accenture will be hosting an event exploring the findings of this year’s Tech Vision report and discussing how business leaders can apply some of the findings to their own organisations as a means of staying competitive in an ever-evolving market landscape.
The Technology Trends: Propelling Your Business into the Future with Emerging Tech event will take place on 25th April at Accenture Leeds, Apsley House, 78 Wellington St, Leeds LS1 2EQ.