What is the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

It’s difficult to argue that technology hasn’t become more pervasive in our lives over the past three decades. With more internet-connected devices on the planet than people and more people on track to have cell phones than electricity sometime in the next year, humanity is in the midst of a technological revolution that is fundamentally altering all aspects of life.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, defined as a merging of physical and biologic systems, has arrived. As a result, it’s more important than ever to examine and understand how technology will impact your life and business.

The next several decades will lead to changes in all aspects of how we live and work, and this blog will highlight trends and information related to both documented and predicted outcomes and policy considerations.

We’re talking about ever-present artificial intelligence, asteroid mining, flying-cars, unintended consequences, consumer technology, humans supplemented by (and arguably integrated with) robotics, custom gene therapy, smart cities, 5G technologies, autonomous vehicles, and much more.

Have a question or want me to cover something? Don’t hesitate to reach out.

-Adam

PS: Curious when the first three industrial revolutions occurred? Here’s a recap:

• The First Industrial Revolution (~1784): Steam power and mechanical production equipment.

• The Second Industrial Revolution (~1870): Electricity and mass production.

• The Third Industrial Revolution (~1969): Electronics, IT, and automated production.