The Next Big Trend After AI?

AI is all the rage these days. Dominating headlines and revolutionizing the workforce - new AI tools and technology pop up seemingly daily. But, what comes after AI?

Quantum computing are two words that you’ll start to hear a lot more of, and it is poised to revolutionize cybersecurity - prompting companies to prepare for the imminent threat that it poses to current cryptographic systems. A quantum computer is a type of device that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations. Since the 1990s, the potential of large-scale quantum computers to break existing encryption methods has been recognized.

While current quantum computers can only tackle trivial cases - experts predict they will be capable of compromising all public key cryptographic systems within the next decade. Goodbye private WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal messages! 

To address this looming threat, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) initiated a search for quantum-resistant algorithms in 2016. After extensive evaluation, NIST is set to standardize four post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms this summer.

This move will have global implications, as NIST standards are widely adopted by governments and companies worldwide, with several countries already expressing intent to implement these approved PQC solutions.

As organizations brace for the quantum cryptography era, proactive measures are essential. CIOs are advised to conduct cryptographic inventories, allocate resources for transition leadership, and initiate testing of PQC algorithms within their environments and supply chains. 

Beyond cybersecurity, quantum computing holds vast potential for industries like finance, healthcare, and transportation. Financial institutions such as HSBC are already investing in quantum technologies, anticipating transformative impacts on portfolio performance, machine learning, and cryptography. However, universal adoption hinges on addressing challenges such as data handling and hybrid computing architectures.

While quantum computing readiness is being cultivated globally, CIOs must strategize deployment approaches tailored to their industries and organizational needs. While some sectors can afford to wait for mature solutions, others are already preparing for a paradigm shift. Ultimately, as quantum computing advances, its integration into everyday operations will demand user-friendly interfaces and broad accessibility, propelling it into the forefront of technological innovation.

Catch the Latest in Job Market Trends with 'Job Minute Market 📊

Small business owners experiencing slowing employment in February

According to the National Federation of Independent Business' February report, 56% of small business owners reported slower hiring or difficulty trying to hire in February. 25% of owners reported limited qualified applicants for open positions, and 26% reported none.

Unemployment is stable in most states this February – however, jobless rates have increased from last year

Unemployment rates are stable in most states, while the national unemployment rates increased by .2% in February. Unemployment grew in only three states and lowered in three states. However, over half of the states had increases in jobless rates from the year earlier. 

Generative A.I. tools increasing productivity – specifically with new employees

According to a National Bureau of Economic Research study, generative A.I. tools increased productivity within customer service departments within Fortune 500 companies. Productivity gains were found, with the A.I. tool increasing customer resolution rates by 14%. The generative A.I. tool was most helpful to newer employees as it mirrored the efforts of the most productive workers.

Workers who switched their jobs found better positions, pay, and greater interest in their work 

Those who switched jobs found that one of the most essential aspects of job seekers is a growing interest in work responsibilities. 70% of job switchers found that they were in a better position after changing jobs. 60% saw improvements in pay or benefits, but 54% found they had a greater interest in their work.

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