ITPro, UK: Cognizant’s Vice President and UK & Ireland Head Looks at Three Technology and Digital Trends Companies Need to Watch out for in 2017

“Companies need to keep four eyes out on baby boomers, VR and retail,” says Vivek Daga. Excerpts:

“We can already see signs that baby boomers are having a huge impact on the industries that the second coming of age touches directly, where they can see immediate potential to reshape their lives. The key is understanding what boomers are looking for and offering features and upgrades that will appeal to this demographic without putting off younger buyers. If companies can understand the needs of the boomer, it will help them gain market share and 2017 can suddenly be a very good year for them.

As we have turned into a ‘buy and bring back later’ society, many people buy whatever they can when the price is right, and then take back unwanted or ill-fitting items at a later date.  This means a high volume of returns, which can be a logistical challenge for retailers. A smooth returns process will play a big part in retailers’ success in 2017 and beyond.

VR (virtual reality) has emerged as an application of choice across multiple industries, both for bespoke experiences such as live events and to aid teaching and learning. For most traditional industries, it is not yet the right time to make bet-your-brand investments in VR or AR (augmented reality). Nevertheless, businesses should turn their attention to these technologies now or risk losing out on a key learning period in an increasingly digital, diverse and competitive world. 2017 may be the year of the breakthrough of VR and AR in various industries and for several purposes. Not every industry is ready yet, but those that are see the tremendous possibilities VR and AR can offer.”

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