Chapter 11
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES: RPA, AI, BLOCKCHAIN, IoT, AR, AND AUGMENTED ANALYTICS
RPA (Robotic Process Automation): This is a technology that uses software to automate repetitive tasks in businesses. It refers to the use of software bots to execute tasks based on specific rules. These bots are especially useful for processing digital data and performing simulations in business processes.
Some of its applications include: automation of administrative and accounting processes.
Reduction of human errors in data entry.
Improved operational efficiency.
2. AI (Artificial Intelligence)
AI has great potential to perform routine tasks, which can speed up processes and improve customer service through bots. It allows machines to perform tasks that require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and machine learning. However, it's important to emphasize that AI must be continuously monitored and optimized to ensure it meets quality and ethical standards.
Virtual assistants (Siri, Alexa).
Predictive analytics in business.
Automated medical diagnostics.
3. Blockchain
Blockchain is a disruptive technology that offers a public, decentralized database, ideal for tracking transactions and improving cybersecurity. Its application in areas such as HR for personnel selection can reduce subjectivity and speed up hiring processes. It is a distributed ledger technology that guarantees security and transparency in digital transactions. The cryptoeconomy, driven by the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether, is changing the way we conduct transactions. Although its future is uncertain, its impact on the global economy is undeniable.
Its uses include:
Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Smart contracts in sectors such as real estate and finance.
Product traceability in the supply chain.
4. IoT (Internet of Things)
It extends connectivity to everyday objects, enabling greater automation and efficiency in sectors such as the food industry. The integration of IoT into traditional businesses is transforming their processes and improving resource management. IoT connects physical devices to the internet to collect and share data in real time.
Applications:
Smart homes (home automation).
Remote health monitoring.
Optimization of industrial processes.
5. AR (Augmented Reality)
AR offers new user experiences by superimposing digital elements onto the physical world. It is especially beneficial for sales and marketing, allowing for a digital representation of physical products. Augmented Reality allows digital information to be superimposed onto the real world using devices such as smart glasses or smartphones. Uses:
Games and entertainment (Pokémon GO).
Training and simulations in the industrial sector.
Interactive experiences in commerce and tourism.
6. Augmented Analytics
Combining data analytics with AI tools, such as machine learning, improves the speed and accuracy of data analysis, which is crucial for industries that handle large volumes of information.
It is the combination of data analysis with AI to improve decision-making. It is applied in:
Market trend prediction.
Personalization of customer experiences.
Optimization of marketing strategies.
Special Devices and Immersive Worlds
Virtual and augmented reality devices enable the creation of interactive and autonomous environments, with virtual economies. This opens up new opportunities for collaborative work and entertainment.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is critical to protecting companies' data, networks, and applications. Complying with regulations, such as the GDPR, is essential to avoiding fines and maintaining customer trust.
Wearables
Wearables generate vast amounts of data that can be used to gain valuable insights about users. This can help personalize services and improve decision-making.
Conclusion
Emerging technologies, such as RPA, AI, Blockchain, IoT, AR, and augmented analytics, offer numerous opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and transform businesses. It is critical that companies invest in these technologies and cybersecurity to remain competitive and protect their assets.
Examples of how these emerging technologies complement each other, enhancing their impact on different sectors:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) + Augmented Analytics
Example: Financial sector:
Banks and fintech companies use AI to process large volumes of data in real time, while Augmented Analytics detects patterns and trends in the information.
Real-life case: Banks use AI to analyze transaction history and Augmented Analytics to detect fraud in real time, reducing financial risks.
2. Blockchain + Internet of Things (IoT)
Example: Supply chain and logistics.
IoT allows goods to be tracked with smart sensors, while Blockchain stores this data securely and immutably.
Case in point: Walmart and other companies are using IoT and Blockchain to monitor food traceability, ensuring its freshness and authenticity.
3. RPA + Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Example: Customer Service Automation:
RPA bots can perform repetitive tasks (such as answering frequently asked questions), while AI enhances their responsiveness with predictive analytics and natural language processing.
Case study: Companies like Amazon and Google are integrating RPA with AI into their virtual assistants to improve customer service efficiency.
4. Augmented Reality (AR) + IoT
Example: Industrial maintenance.
IoT devices collect real-time information on machine status, and AR allows technicians to view real-time data through smart glasses.
Case study: Boeing uses AR and IoT to assist its engineers in aircraft assembly, reducing errors and production times.
5. Blockchain + IA
Example: Digital identity security.
AI can analyze patterns in digital transactions, while blockchain ensures the authenticity and immutability of data.
Case study: IBM and Microsoft are working on digital identity solutions that combine AI with blockchain to improve access and authentication security.
These combinations demonstrate how the convergence of emerging technologies can generate more powerful, secure, and efficient solutions.
