2014 technology trends and its effect on developers

BANGALORE, INDIA: When it comes to information technology-‘change is the only constant' and never before have the changes in IT been so rapid and extensive. Year 2014 will be marked by wider adoption of disruptive technologies like social computing, mobility, cloud and big data. Most of the recent industry reports also point that CIOs are bracing themselves to adopt these technologies in 2014.

New product and solution offerings will emerge from integration and confluence of these technologies. With proliferation of smart devices, instant connectivity and massive growth of social media, customers today demand real time communication and consistent experience across channels. Businesses will be looking at leveraging disruptive technologies to not just meet these changed expectations but also to grow and innovate.

Naturally, developers who have skills in these new technologies will be in demand. However, what would be also important is their ability to look at SMAC technologies holistically. Developers who can envision how the combination of technologies can create solutions that will introduce new, disruptive ways of doing business rather than merely looking at problem solving will have better chances of success.

In addition to pure technical skills, IT professionals will require a newer approaches to adapt to this new technology environment.

Customer oriented approach:

The traditional IT business models where factories of coders would work in remote development centers on developing and maintain applications is changing fast. Unlike in the past, developers cannot afford to work in isolation anymore. They need to know how their work impacts customer's business and how it will be used by end consumers.

Developers' mindset has to shift beyond the 17" monitor they are sitting in front of, and be aware of how their technology is being deployed and experienced in the real world or contributing to clients' success. This understanding is very important as all the work needs to be in context, based on client needs and ethos.

Continuous learning:

It is crucial to keep the desire to learn alive. An individual's own initiative is important as there may not be adequate company sponsored, coordinated, or structured avenues of learning available because technology is so complex and changing so rapidly. Rather, an individual would need to experiment and expose himself to different technologies; those who stay abreast of the latest developments not only in different areas of technology, but also in customer needs and consumer lifestyles will benefit more than others.

Shaping your professional journey:

Given that most of these technologies are quite recent, one may not have 10 years of work experience around them. However, one can demonstrate, via prior work experience, the ability to learn and grasp new things, handle multiple tasks and complex projects. Employers are actively looking out for developers' ability to learn multiple things at a fast speed but more importantly see the kind of results they can produce with this quick learning and adapting.

Life skills:

Never before have these been so critical. One's leadership skills, ability to work with the team, commitment to excellence, ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and gratitude towards life will stand anyone in good stead despite the shifts in not just technology but also in life.

The wheel of technology only turns forward bettering lifestyles and opening up newer opportunities- not just for businesses but also for individuals. With the right approach, one can make the most of these changes.

The author is chief people officer, at Happiest Minds