In his 1953 novel, Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury made several predictions about the future that have come to fruition. Among those predictions, he predicted interacting with others through video, large flat TV screens that take up an entire wall, and more.
Beyond Bradbury, there are other cases of people predicting technological advances, the internet (and its psychological impact) and other innovations. Perhaps the easiest way to predict the future is to think of iterations of current technologies that would benefit processes and people. Or think of future applications for current technologies. For example, TVs existed when Bradbury wrote Fahrenheit 451, but he imagined a world where the screens were larger and integrated into a home.
The reason that iterative predictions are easiest is because technology and innovation go hand in hand. There is a constant drive to improve technology and move it forward. In fact, you might notice how this parallels your own continuous improvement mindset. Technologists and continuous improvers are always looking for ways to move ahead to what’s next.
That’s one of the reasons why I am so excited about the AME Technology & Innovation Virtual Summit in May. It’s an opportunity to learn from thought leaders about new technologies and developments that are impacting lean workplaces right now. What’s more, this summit provides an on-ramp for the AME Dallas 2022 International Conference, where you’ll learn and network with others who are dedicated to embracing disruption in manufacturing, health care, government, and other sectors.
And, best of all, the virtual summit is free for our members! I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and register now for the AME Technology & Innovation Virtual Summit and then join us May 10-11 for keynote speakers, tours, and sessions that will help employees and employers get the most out of what’s now and what’s next.
As always, please stay safe and keep looking out for one another.
