Emerging technologies have a high potential for impact and are worthy of attention by the Information Systems (IS) community. To date, the IS discipline has not been able to be a leader in the research and teaching of emerging technologies in their early stages arguably because: (1) IS researchers often lack knowledge of the foundational principles of such emerging technologies, and (2) during the emerging phase, there is insufficient data on the adoption, use, and impact of these technologies. To overcome these challenges, the IS discipline must be willing to break its own disciplinary research boundaries to go beyond software applications and their related management issues and start studying emerging technologies before they are massively adopted by industry. In this paper, we use quantum computing as an exemplar emerging technology and outline a research and education agenda that will help IS harness the opportunities quantum computing offers. We propose that IS researchers rigorously investigate emergent technologies through collaboration with researchers from other disciplines. We also see a role for IS researchers in the scholarship of emerging technologies and in the process of introducing emerging technologies into IS curricula.
Emerging technologies have a high potential for impact and are worthy of attention by the Information Systems (IS) community. To date, the IS discipline has not been able to be a leader in the research and teaching of emerging technologies in their early stages arguably because: (1) IS researchers often lack knowledge of the foundational principles of such emerging technologies, and (2) during the emerging phase, there is insufficient data on the adoption, use, and impact of these technologies. To overcome these challenges, the IS discipline must be willing to break its own disciplinary research boundaries to go beyond software applications and their related management issues and start studying emerging technologies before they are massively adopted by industry. In this paper, we use quantum computing as an exemplar emerging technology and outline a research and education agenda that will help IS harness the opportunities quantum computing offers. We propose that IS researchers rigorously investigate emergent technologies through collaboration with researchers from other disciplines. We also see a role for IS researchers in the scholarship of emerging technologies and in the process of introducing emerging technologies into IS curricula.
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in information processing, promising unprecedented computational power and the ability to solve complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers. This Review provides a concise overview of the potential impacts of quantum computing on the Information Technology (IT) industry, exploring key advancements, challenges, and transformative possibilities. Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform computations in ways that classical computers cannot emulate. This review examines the potential ramifications for the IT industry, addressing crucial aspects shaping the future of quantum computing. The impacts on cryptography, a cornerstone of IT security, are discussed, as quantum computers have the potential to break widely used encryption algorithms, necessitating the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions. Additionally, the Review delves into the optimization of complex problem-solving tasks, such as optimization problems and machine learning algorithms, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of quantum computing in accelerating data analysis and decision-making processes. Challenges in realizing the full potential of quantum computing, including error correction, qubit stability, and hardware development, are also explored. As quantum computers are still in the nascent stages of development, addressing these challenges is imperative for harnessing their true capabilities. The Review concludes by highlighting the collaborative efforts of industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers in advancing quantum computing technologies. Initiatives and investments are underway to develop scalable and commercially viable quantum hardware and software, signaling the beginning of a new era in information processing. In summary, this Review provides a snapshot of the evolving landscape of quantum computing and its potential impacts on the IT industry. As quantum technologies continue to mature, their transformative influence on cryptography, problem-solving tasks, and computational capabilities is poised to reshape the IT industry, prompting stakeholders to adapt and capitalize on the quantum computing revolution.
Quantum computing is an approach to data processing and computation that uses principles of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems that traditional computers cannot handle. This panel aims to explore the potential of quantum technologies and their impact on IS scholarship and practice. We will discuss lessons from the past, the outlook for the future, and how quantum computing may either challenge or expand the current modus operandi of business and society. Building on common images of quantum computing in the popular discourse, the panel considers five metaphors used to describe quantum computing: a mirage, a crypto buster, a supercomputer, a silver bullet, and a paradigm shift. Overall, we call on the information systems community to help transform the discourse on quantum computing, shifting from an exclusive interest in technical issues to a broader interest in quantum information systems that focuses on the application and commercial advancement of quantum computing.
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in information technology with the potential to revolutionize information systems by offering unprecedented computational power. This study explores the role of quantum computing in transforming information systems through a qualitative approach, utilizing literature review and library research methodologies. The research investigates how quantum computing could address complex computational challenges that are currently beyond the capabilities of classical computers, including problems related to optimization, cryptography, and large-scale data analysis. The study also examines the opportunities that quantum computing presents, such as accelerated problem-solving and enhanced data security, alongside the challenges, including technical hurdles, high costs, and the need for new algorithms and hardware. By synthesizing insights from existing academic and industry sources, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of quantum computing, its potential impact on information systems, and the critical areas that require further research and development. The findings underscore the transformative potential of quantum computing while highlighting the significant obstacles that must be overcome to fully realize its benefits. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how quantum computing could shape the future of information systems and informs stakeholders about the strategic considerations necessary for navigating this emerging technology.
Quantum computing, with its revolutionary approach to data processing and problem solving, is poised to redefine the boundaries of modern technology. Unlike classical computing, quantum computing leverages the principles of superposition, entanglement, and quantum parallelism to perform complex computations at unprecedented speeds. As industries worldwide begin to explore and adopt quantum solutions, it becomes imperative for higher education institutions to keep pace with these advancements. This paper explores the critical integration of quantum computing into university curricula, emphasising its potential to drive innovation, enhance research capabilities, and equip students with the skills needed for the quantum driven future. By aligning academic frameworks with cutting edge developments in quantum technology, educational institutions can cultivate a new generation of quantum literate professionals ready to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of this emerging era
Quantum computing, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, is emerging as one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century, promising computational power that can tackle problems once considered unsolvable. Unlike classical computing, which processes data in bits, quantum computing operates using quantum bits or ‘qubits’ that exploit quantum superposition and entanglement, enabling vastly superior processing power. This paper examines the challenges and opportunities presented by quantum computing, focusing on its potential to transform various industries such as healthcare, finance, education, defence, utilities and more. Additionally, the paper explores its environmental implications and impact on sustainability. A literature survey of key research contributions and a discussion of commercial timelines highlight the current state and future of this revolutionary technology. While quantum computing presents immense opportunities, its technical and economic challenges must be overcome for it to reach widespread commercial adoption. The paper concludes with an exploration of the road ahead for this nascent technology. Despite significant challenges, quantum computing offers unprecedented opportunities to transform multiple sectors, making it an essential area for ongoing research.
Quantum computing is emerging as one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century, with significant implications for business strategy, workforce development, education systems, and global economic competitiveness. This paper introduces the foundational principles of quantum computing, including superposition, entanglement, interference, and decoherence, and explains how these mechanisms enable quantum systems to outperform classical computers in solving complex problems. It further examines the potential applications of quantum computing across industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, automotive engineering, artificial intelligence, and logistics, highlighting both opportunities for innovation and risks of disruption. Attention is given to anticipated labor market shifts, the growing need for quantum literacy in higher education and professional training, and the relationship between quantum technologies and artificial intelligence acceleration. The paper also explores broader societal and demographic implications, including the risk of widening technological inequality between developed and developing nations. Ultimately, the study argues that while quantum computing presents unprecedented opportunities for economic advancement and scientific discovery, proactive policy planning, educational adaptation, and international collaboration will be essential to ensure inclusive and sustainable adoption.