By 2026, 20% of industrial operations in Asia will use AI/ML for vision-based systems and robotic and automation processes to achieve higher efficiencies, reduce downtime, and improve worker safety. This is just one of International Data Corp.’s (IDC) predictions unveiled in its latest report, IDC FutureScape: Worldwide Future of Operations 202 4 Predictions — Asia/Pacific (Excluding Japan) Implications.

IDC’s Future of Operations framework describes how organizations can improve their decision-making processes and efficacy by embracing data-driven operations (DDO). Digital technology and cloud capabilities are essential components in DDO, and this is reflected in the data from IDC’s 2023 Worldwide Future of Operations Survey that shows that cloud is one of the top technology priority for organizations in Asia/Pacific. About 77% of APeJ respondents say that cloud is essential or very important to their organization’s operations. Other key technologies needed to achieve efficient, resilient, and optimized operations include AI, robotics, mixed reality tools, edge computing, 5G and cybersecurity.

“Organizations in Asia/Pacific recognize the importance of investing in essential technologies for data-driven operations,” said Rakesh Patni, Associate Research Director, Future of Operations Asia Pacific.

Looking to the future, Generative AI will be essential to driving greater insights from operational data: 57% of APEJ respondents said Generative AI tools (such as ChatGPT) will be one of the Top 3 analytic tools and techniques their organization plans to make significant new investments in to analyze operational data. Generative AI, employing both unsupervised and semi-supervised algorithms to produce new content based on existing text, audio, video, images, and code, represents a pivotal technology heralding the advent of a novel computing age – the Era of AI Everywhere.

“They need to establish core technologies such as cloud, artificial intelligence and advanced connectivity and acquire new digital capabilities to improve their ability to contextualize high-quality data and drive greater insights into their operations. However, they should also focus on talent development through new hires, forming partnerships with service providers, or by enhancing the skills of their current workforce. The combination of skilled talent and appropriate technology, aligned with a strategic approach, is crucial for optimized and efficient operations. The Future of Operations predictions provide insights and guidance to help organizations in Asia Pacific navigate their digital transformation journey,” said Patni.

Each year, IDC releases its top technology predictions at worldwide, regional and country level through its IDC FutureScape Reports   and gives a crystal ball view of what is ahead for the rapidly changing IT industry. These predictions have been used to shape the strategies and business objectives of technology leaders and business executives in the next 1-5 years. All the predictions stated here cover Asia/Pacific implications.