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Dec. 9, 2024
Unsung Heroes of IT: 15 Underhyped Technologies Powering Business Innovation in 2025
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Dec. 9, 2024
While artificial intelligence (AI) continues to dominate the technology spotlight, a wealth of equally impactful technologies remain overlooked. These unsung innovations quietly fuel efficiency, innovation, and resilience across organizations, ensuring that IT's backbone remains robust and adaptive. From quantum-safe cryptography to small language models and modern data platforms, here are 15 underhyped technologies deserving of recognition in 2025.
While large language models like GPT-4 steal the limelight, small language models (SLMs) are carving out a niche by offering cost-efficient, domain-specific automation. Trained on narrower datasets, SLMs deliver targeted solutions, such as streamlining customer service workflows or automating HR document parsing. Organizations looking for AI without the overhead of large models are leveraging SLMs to solve specific challenges with precision.
AMRs and co-bots have evolved to perform routine, labor-intensive tasks like inspections and parts delivery, enabling human workers to focus on strategic, creative roles. Their deployment in industries such as manufacturing and logistics is reducing operational costs while enhancing productivity.
The proliferation of IoT devices introduces new vulnerabilities to enterprise systems. IoT security tools, which integrate device authentication, data encryption, and network monitoring, are critical for protecting sensitive operations and ensuring compliance. With operational technology (OT) merging into IT ecosystems, robust IoT security has become indispensable.
The zero trust model, which assumes no device or user can be trusted by default, is being extended to edge environments. By securing distributed workloads and edge computing nodes, zero trust edge mitigates risks in remote operations, such as IoT networks or branch office environments.
Quantum computing poses a looming threat to traditional encryption. Technologies like post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) ensure long-term data security against quantum-enabled cyberattacks. Early adoption of these technologies is a forward-thinking move for safeguarding sensitive information.
From data minimization to differential privacy, PETs are becoming integral to managing compliance and protecting user data. They not only bolster consumer trust but also reduce exposure to regulatory risks.
DDID allows individuals to control their digital identities without relying on centralized authorities. Using blockchain for verifiable credentials, DDID strengthens privacy and enables seamless authentication in decentralized systems, paving the way for a more secure internet.
Cloud-native modern data platforms enable real-time data processing and advanced analytics. By consolidating unstructured and structured data, they empower organizations to unlock actionable insights, supporting AI-driven innovations and other transformative technologies.
The success of AI hinges on well-structured, clean, and accessible data. Data management tools ensure data governance, accuracy, and scalability, laying the groundwork for reliable AI models. Despite its "unsexy" reputation, this software remains critical.
Synthetic data, generated by AI, accelerates model training without risking real-world data privacy. This approach enables organizations to train robust AI models while avoiding compliance hurdles.
Spatial computing, integrating augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR), has matured into practical applications. From training simulations to collaborative engineering, these technologies are proving their value beyond the flashy promises of the metaverse.
Behind every seamless IT operation is a suite of management tools like Active Directory, ITSM platforms, and identity management solutions. These tools provide stability and enable IT teams to focus on innovation rather than firefighting.
The cloud, once a buzzword, has become the backbone of modern IT. It provides the scalability and flexibility needed to drive AI, remote work, and digital transformation initiatives.
Transitioning ERP systems to the cloud enables organizations to innovate their business processes. Cloud-based ERPs enhance scalability, improve collaboration, and allow businesses to adapt to changing market demands quickly.
Cloud migration tools simplify the transition to the cloud by analyzing applications and infrastructure for optimal deployment strategies. These tools reduce the risk of downtime and cost overruns, enabling smoother migrations.
While AI garners much of the attention, the technologies listed above form the backbone of enterprise innovation. Recognizing their contributions and investing in their adoption is critical for organizations aiming to build sustainable and resilient IT ecosystems in 2025 and beyond.
