Edge Computing in the Modern IT Landscape: A Future Outlook
How will edge computing drive and be driven by transformations in the IT sector?
The challenges organizations face are mounting in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, from innovations like generative AI to the evolution of IT infrastructure. Not only are they grappling with facilitating the mass influx of data, but the burden of processing this data has significant environmental implications. Navigating this landscape requires strategies that reconcile increased data demands with sustainability imperatives, highlights Adam Compton of Schneider Electric.
One strategy that has taken the lead among organizations to facilitate data demand in tandem with sustainability goals is adopting a hybrid IT infrastructure. In fact, according to a recent report from Schneider Electric that includes responses from 1,150 U.S. IT decision makers (ITDMs) found that 48% of ITDMs have a hybrid IT infrastructure (50% cloud, 50% local IT), while 36% are mostly cloud-based (75% cloud, 25% local IT). Only 5% are fully cloud-based.
This emerging trend for IT infrastructure underscores the importance of effective management of these dispersed IT setups. Edge computing emerges as a game-changer in this context. Edge computing is the processing and computing of client data closer to the data source rather than a centralized server or a cloud-based location. By offering faster processing, heightened data security, and increased resilience, edge computing promises to bridge the gaps in modern IT infrastructure.
However, although approximately three-quarters of ITDMs say their team (76%), industry (75%), and organization (74%) are prepared to leverage edge computing, there are still friction points that are inhibiting the implementation and scaling of this technology – namely its complexities and a talent shortfall in the sector.
The Imperative for Edge Computing
As organizations pivot towards hybrid IT infrastructure, managing hybrid IT – integrating both local and cloud resources – becomes paramount. This brings edge computing into focus. Such an approach promises to plug gaps in modern IT infrastructure.
The advantages of edge computing are manifold. The main drivers for adopting edge computing for ITDMs include bolstering data privacy and security (43%), enhancing productivity (42%), and fortifying reliability (39%). However, barriers exist. When asked why their organization has not implemented edge computing, almost half (47%) of ITDMs say that costs are a significant deterrent, while 46% point to a skills gap. The perceived security vulnerabilities associated with edge computing deter 35% of ITDMs, and doubts about return on investment (ROI) keep 29% hesitant. Additionally, almost a quarter (24%) cite a need for more organizational buy-in as a prime roadblock.
See More: Top 5 Advantages of Green Computing Practices for Companies
Strategies for Navigating Edge Computing Challenges
Overcoming these challenges can be simpler than expected with the right tools and strategies. For example, prefabricated data centers are highly cost-effective and can be quickly deployed and scaled as needed. Incorporating energy-efficient hardware and software into edge solutions can also help to optimize energy use and reduce costs. Security concerns can also be alleviated by using comprehensive tools that help monitor, detect, and respond to potential threats in real-time.
When it comes to bridging the skills gap, it would behoove organizations to invest in training programs designed to upskill the current workforce on the nuances of edge computing technologies and best practices. By utilizing online platforms and workshops, employees can be better equipped to handle the demands of this evolving technology. In addition to in-house training, forging partnerships with outside experts can also be a valuable method to overcoming this hurdle. Such collaborations ensure that the edge infrastructure is not only deployed effectively but is also maintained properly and aligned with the broader organizational needs.
Promoting organizational buy-in for edge computing is paramount for its successful integration and utilization. By securing support from key executives, the adoption of edge computing within an organization can be streamlined, ensuring resource allocation and paving the way for a successful, holistic implementation. One effective strategy is to hold educational workshops, providing sessions that inform stakeholders about the benefits and potential of edge computing that are aligned to the organization’s business objectives. Using real-world case studies in these sessions can be particularly compelling, offering tangible insights and impacts into its transformative power. Additionally, emphasizing its alignment with ESG goals can further bolster executive buy-in as organizations face mounting public and regulatory pressure to decarbonize operations.
Sustainability and Edge Computing Go Hand-in-hand
In the advancing tech landscape, edge computing has emerged as a crucial link between enhanced processing capabilities and ESG goals, bridging innovation with environmental stewardship. At its core, edge computing processes data closer to its source, inherently promoting energy efficiency. By minimizing the need to transfer large volumes of data to centralized data centers, which are energy-intensive, it reduces the carbon footprint.
Furthermore, there’s an emerging trend among edge computing providers to harness renewable energy, such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power. Edge computing’s distributed nature allows it to benefit from localized renewable energy sources, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and traditional electricity. These renewable solutions not only reflect a shift towards a sustainable energy paradigm but also ensure continuous operation, even in regions with unreliable grid power, enhancing edge computing’s reliability. This approach aligns seamlessly with broader ESG objectives, making edge computing invaluable for organizations focused on sustainability.
To maximize this potential, organizations must adopt a comprehensive framework to monitor the energy sources fueling their edge computing endeavors. The top ways organizations are measuring and tracking sustainability at the edge include automated data collection and analytics tools (45%), supply chain sustainability tracking for edge computing materials (44%), and sensors and monitoring tools in edge computing hardware (40%). This proactive monitoring empowers organizations to make informed decisions that champion sustainability.
The Race to Innovate
Many ITDMs report that their organizations have begun embracing edge computing, recognizing the burgeoning demand in the tech landscape. With the relentless pressure to stay ahead of competitors and the influx of new technologies, organizations are grappling with the need for enhanced compute power and reduced latency. Edge computing offers a solution, particularly as innovations within IoT, machine learning, and AI continue to emerge and are predicted to benefit immensely from this technology.
By proactively integrating edge now, organizations are not only setting the stage for these imminent advancements but are also ensuring that when the time is ripe for deploying these emerging technologies, the necessary infrastructure is already established.
The Edge Ahead
The momentum behind edge computing’s adoption is undeniable, spanning organizations of all scales and budgets. As hybrid IT infrastructures become ubiquitous, ITDMs confront a spectrum of IT challenges. These range from integrating legacy IT with novel systems and facilitating technology adoption among employees to fortifying against ever-evolving cyber threats.
Yet, amidst these challenges, the future of edge computing shines brightly in the eyes of ITDMs. They anticipate many benefits, from speed and security enhancements to bolstered resilience. With a vision that edge computing will further catalyze innovations and buttress ESG goals, ITDMs see its indispensability in the coming times. While challenges persist, organizations that make investments today to strategically harness its potential are poised to thrive in tomorrow’s digital-first ecosystem.
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