Daria Polończyk, Head of Analysis & Design at the software developers Future Processing, considers the state of the software industry, in terms of security, accessibility and user experience.
The software industry landscape has encountered a great number of changes and challenges over the past few years. The main source behind the latest software development trends is the push toward a more customer-centric approach. From AI and IoT to big data and cloud-based solutions, companies need to provide customers with a seamless, secure and accessible experience, in addition to delivering solutions faster and more cost-effective, without compromising on quality.
Delivering the experience customers expect, means that many companies will have to invest in the appropriate technology. IDC predicts that in 2022, digital products, services and operations will account for almost 80 per cent of revenue growth across all industries. Customer experience has become the foundation of software development, aiding companies to create a competitive advantage in the marketplace. With customer demands dynamically evolving, customer experience needs to be at the base of the development process.
Evolution
The constant innovation of technology is a never-ending process. The credibility of the software industry depends on how well the innovation is developed and how quickly new technology is adopted. Advancements in this space are revolutionising the way companies operate and drive businesses forward to remain competitive.
It’s not just the software development industry that is changing—the emphasis we place on software will only grow as it powers so many aspects of life in this increasingly connected world. Various factors influence the way in which companies adopt new technology and advance their digital workflow.
Customer expectations
The pandemic has required companies to divert budgets to maintain a remote living structure, for online collaboration, virtual meetings and a private digital network. Some businesses had to undergo a complete digital transformation and upgrade their technological infrastructure to stay competitive. Digital-first business models are gaining momentum and consequently, increasing the technological demand in various sectors.
Many customers are living a complete online life, so engaging with a company that offers anything less than effortless interactions can lead to the loss of customers. Whilst customers have the capacity to learn and adapt to new digital innovations, companies simply do not have the same ability. The framework needed to transform against rapidly changing customer expectations is substantial. It is their journey that dictates a company’s advances – and in order to keep up with the new kind of always-connected customer, companies need to embrace innovative technology to deliver an enhanced customer experience. Research shows that 35% of companies claim that digital innovation aids them in better meeting customer expectations.
Market trends
Technology that is eminent today may be obsolete tomorrow. Market trends are altering the way in which we develop, implement and manage software and the platforms to generate for.
Evolving elements in the software industry include:
Big Data –
With data at the foundation of any company, Big Data has become custom in the software industry. With increased scrutiny on Big Data, securing all the data collected has become the top priority for any organisation – leading to the integration of security as an essential component.
Artificial Intelligence –
AI has already become a central component in most software – growing significantly in recent years, it seems not to be slowing down. Most AI processes have been able to completely replace humans – the next decade may see AI that can match human intelligence. AI linked with neural networks and machine learning software adapts to self-learning and evolving systems. Software development will shift from creating static logic to algorithms that can learn and adapt to meet user expectations.
Serverless Computing and The Cloud –
The Cloud has drastically changed how software is implemented. Now the serverless computing concept is further developing by eliminating infrastructure management requirements. With increased dependence on the Cloud, Cloud-based Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery will result in the creation of a complete cloud-based software development workflow.
Security, accessibility, and user experience
The ability to take advantage of new technology in the software industry is underpinned by cybersecurity. Customers are demanding a secure-by-design application, with software that has been generated to be safeguarded from inception – reducing the possibility of cybersecurity risks and that values their data security. The software industry is in an era of accessibility, allowing digital solutions to be easily consumed and operated by customers. Software developers are now responsible for ensuring that all users have equal access to applications, as well as keeping in mind future features – considering how different customers will utilise them.
Accessibility in the software industry means developing products and services for users of all abilities. There are five faculties of the human body which are measured for an accessibility assessment: visual ability, hearing ability, cognitive ability, speech capability, and mobility. However, accessibility could also include users with no or limited internet access. Accessibility requirements come in many forms.
Accessibility is related to overall usability. Both aim to outline and produce a more natural user experience. User engagement development takes into account experiences other than the physical screen. Consequently, acquiring interactions that are more human-centric, natural, and relevant.
The experience users have with a product or service directly impacts their satisfaction, and therefore, a company’s success. Customer experience is not just a catchphrase, it is ultimately how a customer feels whilst using a product or service, how easily they can discover information, and how effortless their journey is during the entire process.
