These Communications Trends for 2016 May Surprise You

It’s that time of year – time to take a look at the anticipated trends that could impact your business in 2016. In technology, trends could make an impact right away, disappear before the second quarter arrives and everything in between. The pressure to adopt is very real, especially if the assumption is there will be a positive outcome. Fortunately, in business VoIP, the options are only expected to get better.

A recent blog by business VoIP solutions provider, Nextiva takes us inside some of the communications trends that are worth paying attention to in 2016. First, consider Web and cloud-based communications. While the adoption of such technology platforms has been trending for a while, the continued shift toward the tech-friendly work routine and mobile connectivity is driving the adoption of VoIP and web and cloud-based capabilities.

There continues to be a desire to support remote employees, especially as companies continue to shift away from the traditional business structure. Not all key individuals are office bound, while still delivering the desired results. In fact, the elimination of geographic boundaries means the hiring of just the right individual. At the same time, all staff may need access to mobile connectivity, a trend that isn’t going away in 2016. The need to support internal and external employees, as well as business VoIP continues to grow.

Likewise, the desire for secure communications is very real. With the adoption of business VoIP and other connected technologies, the network is getting more use and the potential for more vulnerabilities. With the continued trend toward supporting mobile and remote employees, the number of devices accessing the corporate network also puts the network at an increased risk. In 2016, companies are likely to make more investments in the necessary security measures. 

Younger individuals, otherwise known as Generation Z, will start to graduate from college and find jobs in 2016. This generation is the most technology and computer savvy yet and a lack of technology options means this new workforce will look elsewhere for employment. Otherwise, the Internet of Things (IoT) will continue to see more and more devices connected; devices that GenZ workers expect to be supported and do more than they’ve ever done before.

Finally, if you thought we were done talking about unified communications, sorry to disappoint. Companies are always slow to adopt new technologies, especially when it comes to communications. Even when the benefits in terms of workflow and processes are clearly evident, integration is perceived as tricky. However, the demand for the streamlined use of mobile, voice, video and web collaboration only continues to grow, making unified communications no longer a luxury, but a must-have platform in 2016.