The history of Information Technology can be divided into three main chapters: Mainframes, Personal Computers, and Cloud Computing. When we consider the evolution of IT and its surrounding services, it’s clear how the journey connects: from being an automation-driven, introvert organization, to a technology-centered business enabler, and finally, to a customer-oriented strategic partner. IDC refers to this latest era as the “Third Platform,” where mobile computing, big data, social networking, and cloud computing converge. This shift has given rise to many of today’s most hip trends, such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, the Internet of Things, Augmented and Virtual Reality, Blockchain, and more.
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So far, so good, right? It’s been over 15 years since the first commercial cloud services emerged. The early adopters and early majority have long since jumped on board, and now the late majority is following along — despite lingering concerns over security, local regulations, and countless other issues. The pandemic-forced shift to remote work has given them a slight nudge forward. As for startups, not being cloud-native is practically a deal-breaker for any investor, so they’re already moving full steam ahead in the cloud. But I can’t help wonder — what’s next?
Which technology will define the next era of IT? Should we expect something unexpected breakthrough in the computing field (quantum computing becoming mainstream?), maybe next-gen communication technology (beyond 5G) or cross-technology fusion (CRISPR+AI). What is it? How will the era be called?
As if the heated debates surrounding cryptocurrencies and NFTs — regarding their legality, environmental impact, and sustainability — weren’t enough, we now have the Web3 wave to contend with. Concepts like the “crypto-of-things,” Web3, and even metaverse islands all share a common feature: they provide a fertile ground for testing various forms of decentralization. With intense competition among different crypto platforms, the race for the ultimate proof-of-something method, and the “free spirit” of anti-corporate activism, these technologies are driving decentralized algorithms, transactions, and secure independent operations forward. That said, a decentralized future is far from guaranteed. While technological advancements push the boundaries, local regulations, GDPR laws, social dynamics, financial conflicts, and, most importantly, the existing power dynamics among centralized cloud providers complicate matters — especially with gaming companies now positioning themselves around the metaverse.
DeFi, DAOs, IPFS, Blockchain, and the decentralized web could all gradually converge, with the potential to disrupt significant aspects of the current cloud industry. The “elephant” is already in the room, taking its first steps. As this decentralized movement grows, the major cloud providers will likely explore ways to integrate decentralized solutions into their offerings to safeguard their established market positions. These decentralized services will be a departure from what we currently know as the “Hybrid Cloud.” Personally, I don’t really like the term “hybrid” — it brings a sense of uncertainty & a little eeriness to the context and applying a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work well with complex problems.
Decentralization is not just about crypto; it’s about reimagining the very structure of the internet, where users have more control, privacy, and autonomy. It extends beyond financial transactions, touching areas like decentralized file storage, communication networks, and content distribution. This shift could fundamentally change how we interact online, with fewer intermediaries and more peer-to-peer connections, challenging the centralized dominance of today’s internet giants.
Feb, 2022