5 things to look for in 2025

A new year brings in new opportunities and new challenges. Here are 5 things to look for as we head into 2025:

Emerging technologies

From the incorporation of chatbots in customer service roles to the generation of images and video from a short prompt, artificial intelligence technologies are taking the world by storm. Increased computing capabilities enabled these systems to more efficiently handle of large volumes of data, and companies are keen to seek out places where these tools can save them time and money. You can expect to see a broader application of these machine learning technologies in a greater range of industries, from manufacturing to healthcare and entertainment.

Flexibility in working arrangements

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered dramatic upheaval in the world. Many workers moved from the office to their own living rooms, and e-commerce took a larger role over brick and mortar retail sales. Five years later, the mobile solutions developed over this period are leading workers to have more control over where and when they work, which translates to better greater business functionality in the field and a better work-life balance at home.

Focus on climate

Changes in weather patterns and temperatures have already led to strengthened storm systems capable of disrupting global supply lines, but it’s not all gloom and doom on the climate front. Customers are prioritizing businesses with a green approach that reduces waste and greenhouse gas emissions.  Looking far beyond the ‘greenwashing’ efforts that only pay lip service to the environment, consumers are seeking companies who can demonstrate a real commitment to sustainable environmental practices in their business.

Shifting economics

Geopolitical changes, particularly regarding international trade, have the potential to cause a ripple effect the world over, and already it’s bearing out in sluggish economic growth in Australia and beyond. Pressures such as cost of living increases and rising food prices are changing consumer spending habits, leading to people being much more careful about where and how they spend their money. Economists say this is bearing out as a squeeze in the middle: There is an increase demand for both affordable economical goods and higher-end luxury goods and experiences.

Changing regulations and legislation

Laws and regulations are always subject to change at a moments notice, but there are a couple recent pieces of legislation in Australia to keep an eye out for in the new year.  The Senate has passed the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, which increases penalties for serious privacy breaches and introduces a Children’s Online Privacy Code to better protect children from online harms. And while it remains to be seen how it’ll be enforced, the Online Safety Amendment Bill 2024 places restrictions on the underage use of social media, which could potentially have an impact on marketing and advertising efforts to children.

The businesses that have the greatest chance for success in the new year are the businesses capable of swiftly adapting. From all of us at Sybiz, we wish you a happy, healthy and productive 2025!