We often hear about the exciting disruptors - those businesses who harness new technology in a way that changes their industries forever.A decade ago, many companies could achieve competitive advantage by embracing innovations and trends that were already underway. Today this kind of reactive approach is no longer enough.
This apparent lack of aggressiveness can’t be blamed on a lack of money: Just one-quarter cite funding as a primary challenge with respect to investment in Industry 4.0 technologies. So, what is holding leaders back from embracing disruptive technologies? Quite a few things, as it turns out:As they consider the challenges that stymie their abilities to invest in Industry 4.0 technologies, nearly half of respondents believe their organizations are overly focused on short-term results.
, discusses how companies can be deliberate about sensing and evaluating emerging technologies. And how, by focusing their attention on a meaningful collection of known technologies and catalysts, companies can shape their ambitions, focus investments, and chart a path to tomorrow.When asked if they have been effective at preparing for the impact that new solutions will have on society , just 37 percent of executives said “yes.
While leaders are beginning to acknowledge ethical concerns, few companies are actively discussing the subject, let alone acting on it. Less than half of leaders say their organizations completely understand the potential ethical ramifications of Industry 4.0 technologies; just 29 percent report even discussing ethical concerns. From there, the drop-off continues: Only 12 percent are exploring policies, or already have them in place, related to the ethical use of Industry 4.0 technologies.
While a cautious approach to technology investing is understandable considering all the challenges related to advanced technologies, don’t miss the window of opportunity. Develop a systematic approach for identifying and harnessing opportunities born at the intersection of technology and business to fuel disruptive change.