The state of web services in 2017

It’s a new year, and it’s time to start thinking about what information technology will look like in 2017. That could mean anything from forecasting the costs of adopting new technology to upgrading your products to better integrate with new trends. Whatever it may be, we’re putting down our predictions for how to get the most out of 2017’s web services, right here.

#1 On-premises servers will survive

Cloud adoption will most likely continue to grow despite growing security concerns, and that means it will not be hard to find affordable service for your in-house server or data center. Based on a recent survey of companies that utilize cloud services, nearly half will continue operating some sort of on-site data management systems in response to perceptions of security or compliance concerns. We believe those worries are well-founded, and that means hybrid cloud solutions will continue to be a popular option.

#2 Fewer headlines about machine learning, but more services

Because machine learning requires so much data and processing power to solve everyday problems, an increase in cloud services and vendors in 2017 will also mean an increase in machine learning. But “AI” has a long way to go in practical small business use, so time will tell how this technology will impact small business markets..

#3 Voice commands will get better

With the proliferation of cloud computing and high-speed internet connections, analyzing voice commands is much easier than when it took place in localized environments after hours of training software to recognize your speech patterns.

Although better voice command technology may not mean much for running a business, big vendors like Amazon releasing development kits and application program interfaces does mean you have the opportunity to make your products and services more accessible via popular consumer technology such as Alexa.

#4 The Internet of Things (IoT) hasn’t peaked yet

Marketing experts are just as certain that consumers are feeling oversaturated with references to machine learning as they are that IoT hasn’t yet reached its full buzzword potential. If prices of connected devices come down, and their functionality and security improves, you can bet “IoT” will be one of the most profitable keywords of the year. If this technology doesn’t integrate with your products or services, there’s significant potential for its rise to stardom to make in-house business automation a whole lot better.  However; IoT developers must get serious about security or adoption rates will be slowed significantly.

#5 Containers won’t just be a fad

As a subset of virtualized computing, containers unshackle applications from the constraints of single operating system compatibility. And with several vendors jumping into the market in late 2016 (such as Amazon Web Services), it’s a trend that we’re fairly confident will grow next year.

The market for web services may seem too fickle to gamble on, and many are.  As a small business owner, you have a lot to choose from when considering the technology solutions your business relies on. Technology is essential to reaching new customers, operating efficiently, and remaining competitive with your business rivals. Choose wisely, or it may really cost you!  If you’re ready to start the new year with a new outlook on how your business utilizes all sorts of technology solutions, call us today & we will help you make the right choices that are best for your situation.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
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dditional editing by Jason Harrison, Independent Technology Consultant