How the device mesh will effect strategy

 

The device mesh is what techno-experts, trend setters and futurists are calling as the next big thing to move beyond the realms of applications and connected devices. The device web is a post-app world where devices are more linked than ever before.

From every single receiving and delivering device, we’re caught inside of a device mesh.

The Device Mesh

The device mesh, in essence, is the expanding set of touch points from which people receive all the various electronic stimulus and data that spans their connected equipment.

The concept is closely related to the Internet of Things (IoT), and is developing and shaping how corporations are strategising their communications.

How we access information right now is diffuse and webbed. We access our work and social communications from our smartphones, our computers, wearable tech and even from our environment. While many aspects of this already established network are linked, there are still elements that are disjointed.

How will it affect strategy and business technologies?

The device mesh will connect with developments in business strategy by facilitating a broader, more connected communications system. According to Gartner’s strategic analyst, Brian Burke, by 2020 Artificial Intelligence will be the primary strategic focus for companies like Microsoft and Apple.

The cross-platform face of these developments will be in the form of virtual assistants – for example Microsoft’s Cortana and Apple’s Siri. The goal of the advanced device mesh is to have a more seamless, more immersive user experience. Essentially this is a more interconnected relationship between user and computer.

The nature of applications will change

David Cearley, who is the vice president and Gartner Fellow, claims that mobile applications that connect in more dynamic, intelligent ways – away from the standard stock application – will be the focus for companies like Microsoft.

“The leading edge of that design is focused on providing an experience that flows across and exploits different devices, including IoT sensors, common objects such as automobiles, or even factories. Designing these advanced experiences will be a major differentiator for independent software vendors and enterprises alike by 2018,” said Mr. Cearley.

Not only will broad developments in this area bring about tremendous opportunities for corporations and brands to interact and influence their customers, but business communications and workflows will also benefit.

Adoption of technology

Firms are now wondering what technology to invest in, or if their employees will even be willing to throw themselves and their work into this new interconnect web. Experts advise, though, that there will be no choice.

The post-app future is nearly upon us as our experiences inside and outside of the office slowly but surely become part of an augmented mesh of information.