AnticipaTech Report - Impact of emerging technologies

The AnticipaTech Report was produced in collaboration with the technology foresight programme of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence armasuisse Science and Technology. The report provides a comprehensive overview of emerging technology and megatrends that will have a profound impact on the economy, society and security now or in the coming years. It is aimed at decision-makers in companies, authorities and organisations, as well as foresight enthusiasts who want to be prepared for future developments.

With the in-depth analysis of emerging technological trends and global megatrends using the STEEP framework for opportunities, risks and implications, the report enables strategic measures to be developed and opportunities to be actively exploited and challenges to be successfully recognised and overcome.

In combination with the practical Scenario Game Workshop, scenarios for the future can be developed interactively on the basis of the report using the trends discussed. These scenarios help to scrutinise assumptions about the future and develop creative, robust strategies.

The eleven technology trends covered can be broadly categorised as follows:

• Artificial intelligence and data science: 

  The report highlights how advanced algorithms and vast amounts of data are revolutionising decision-making and automation.

• Renewable energy and resilience: 

  Technological innovations in the field of sustainable energy and its storage are in the spotlight in order to overcome the challenges of climate change.

• Robotics and autonomous systems: 

  These technologies are transforming areas such as production, healthcare and mobility by opening up new potential for efficiency.

• New materials and digital production: 

  Advances in 3D printing technology and nanomaterials are enabling new production methods and customised products.

The AnticipaTech report analyses fourteen global megatrends (according to the European Commission) that are driving long-term change around the world. The megatrends analysed can be roughly divided into these categories:

• Demographic imbalances: 

  Population growth and ageing are having a global impact on labour markets and social systems.

• Climate change and environmental degradation: 

  The report sheds light on how ecological challenges and the pressure on natural resources are changing societies and industries.

• Changes in the world of work: 

  Automation and digitalisation are leading to profound changes in working models and qualification requirements.

• Urbanisation: 

  The continuing growth of cities is creating new challenges for infrastructure and quality of life, but also opportunities for smart cities and innovation.

These megatrends help to understand the context for technological developments and show which global dynamics will be important in the long term.