”The age of digitalization” – Why digitalization is a must nowadays

History has shown us that technological progress leads to social evolution and a high standard of living with an increasing life expectancy. Nowadays, the digital technology is the leader in terms of technological evolution, its impact being felt in all economic and social fields.

Even if opinions on the benefits of digitalization are different, the reality proves that new technological innovations in the field of digital technology lead to progress. The pace at which technology is evolving is ever increasing – and people are eager to embrace it. Consider this – in 2019, all over the world, there were 5.112 billion mobile users, 4.388 billion internet users and 3.484 billion active social media users (Global Digital 2019 Reports) and, for sure, in the current context the foreseen growth for 2020 is already exceeded.

What is the digital age?

One of the friendliest definitions is provided by Collins Dictionary: “The digital age (or information age) is a time when large amounts of information are widely available to many people, largely through computer technology”. 

It has a wide scope – the main 8 technologies:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an umbrella term for “smart” technologies that are aware of and can learn from their environments to assist or augment human decision making. Machine learning, recommendation engines, chatbots and image recognition are only a few of the areas where AI is applied.
• Augmented reality (AR) is a data or information “overlay” on the physical world that uses contextualized digital information to augment the user’s real-world view. It is used for data visualization, transportation safety, customer experience and manufacturing operations.
• Blockchain technology is a distributed shared ledger where transactions are recorded and confirmed without the need for a central authority. It is used for supply chain traceability, financial processes, identity verification and digital currencies.
• Drones are devices that fly or move without the presence of a pilot and can be used to collect a wide range of data or execute tasks remotely, i.e., remote delivery, infrastructure maintenance, security provision or video capture.
• The Internet of things (IoT) extends network connectivity and enables a diverse range of devices to collect, process, and send back data. It is used in asset tracking, smart metering, fleet management and predictive maintenance.
• Robotics is the combination of engineering and computer science to create, design, and operate mechanical devices, i.e., robots. It is used in industrial manufacturing, medical procedures, transportation operations and product fulfilment.
• Virtual reality (VR) is a simulation of a 3D image or complete environment where a user can interact in a seemingly realistic way. Marketing makes use of it. It’s also used for training, virtual tours, prototyping.
• 3D printing is the process of creating a three-dimensional object by successively printing layers of materials on one another until an object is formed. It is used in practice to construct spare parts, architectural models, complex manufacturing and rapid prototyping.

Interesting facts about the EU countries that are in top of using the main 8 essential technologies can be seen here.

Why digitalization is a must nowadays?

Looking for the answer to this question, we must look to the benefits that can expect from digital transformation: versatile working, automation, GPS and mapping, decentralized systems, big data (connected to asset management, measuring financial risk, creating marketing strategies), internet of things etc.

One of the most conclusive examples of the utility and efficiency of digitalization is in the trade and communication economic sectors.

The digital age has changed consumer behavior permanently. The online shop is no longer the only and most important sales channel, customers purchase on mobile devices, via voice assistants or within their social media feed on Instagram, Facebook or Snapchat.

The growing media landscape has a crucial influence on consumer behavior. Although each platform offers its own individual advantages for consumers, there is still a symbiotic relationship between traditional and digital technologies. Users can extend their TV experience by using their smartphone to report about it via social media, or by purchase products in connection with a radio advertisement that they are currently listening to. More info here.

In conclusion, even that, for the companies and for all of us, the digital transformation implies costs, efforts and risks, it is a crucial step in order to keep up with the global landscape and remain competitive.

Investment in digitalization and digital education of staff should be a top priority of business owners, managers and the government as well. In the same time for all people should be provided resources helping them to face the digital age.