A (Partial) Glimpse Into The Future
Each year, in preparation for varying presentations, I get to do trend research. I have great sources (all websites I would be happy to pass along if you would like) and they are actually quite fun to read. This year, more than most, the future business trends reading seemed to overlap, regardless of the source. One of my favorite websites for this information, www.entrepreneur.com, has a great article on 2013 trend areas. Here is their list (which is similar to lists on some of the other source websites):
- The Rise of Big Data - this could result in a huge transformation of the IT industry - and the implications from the data can shape everything. (Who is collecting data on you while you read this?)
- Domestic Production - there is a new term - Re-Shoring. More affordable labor, higher shipping costs (and likely international shipping delays) and a better financial climate are driving this.
- The Workplace of the Future - who is reading this during work BUT from a home or a non-traditional office? Nearly 6 million Americans work from home already. And if you go to an office, it will likely look different in the next few years.
- Goofing Off - studies are finding that there is an actual value that can be placed on fun in the workplace. Check out the National Institute for Play (www.nifplay.org).
- 'Cosmeceuticals' - another new term and an evolving category. These are personal care products that are actually good for you.
- Hot Sauce - didn't see that one coming? Hot sauce is one of the 10 fastest growing food industries.
- Energy Drinks - you have seen things like this on the list before, but there is new fuel - coming from young consumers. You are also seeing supercharged food products on the rise. (Check out www.youbars.com - customized energy bars.)
- Digital Health Care - this has the potential to transform the health care market. Its focus - chronic care, wellness and medication management.
- Transparency to Build Trust - brands are aggressively (and politely, of course) working to gain your trust. They know that if you trust them, 83% of you will recommend them.
- Vending Machines - touchscreen technology and electronic payment options will slowly (but surely) transform this industry.
- Creative Finance - crowd-funding (a term from two years ago), peer-to-peer lending and on-line pawn shops will transform how start-ups are funded. Most businesses, to get a good start, don't need millions. They need $25,000 or less.