As a NED, staying ahead of the curve in today's fast-paced digital landscape is crucial. In the final installment of this year's 'NED Talks' series from IBM, delegates will reflect on the technology and innovation trends that have shaped our world, including AI, hybrid cloud, IoT, AR and quantum computing, offering essenital insights as we approach the end of 2025.
This talk provides a comprehensive review of the key trends that have emerged in these areas, highlighting their impact on various industries and society as a whole.
By analysing the lessons learned from these trends, the aim is to shed light on the factors that have driven their success and the challenges they have faced.
Looking ahead to 2026, speakers will look at predictions on the emerging trends in AI, hybrid cloud, and quantum computing that are poised to make a significant impact, providing insights into their potential implications and the opportunities they present for businesses and individuals alike.
Ultimately, this exciting talk serves as a valuable resource for NEDs seeking to stay informed about the latest developments in technology and innovation, and to gain a better understanding of the trends that will shape our future.
This IBM NED Talk will focus on 3 key topics:
Keynote
2024 was a year of transformation for many businesses, as they leveraged technology to redefine their operations, products, and services. From adopting AI and machine learning algorithms to streamline processes and improve decision-making, to embracing remote work and collaboration tools to enhance productivity and employee engagement, companies across industries demonstrated the power of technology to drive innovation and growth.
Spotlight 1 - What dazzled and disappointed in 2025
2025 was a game of 2 halves, with both incredible innovation and disappointing setbacks in the world of technology. On the one hand, we saw remarkable advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the Internet of Things, which promise to transform industries and improve our daily lives. On the other hand, we witnessed significant challenges and failures, from data breaches and cyber-attacks to the slow adoption of new technologies and the ongoing digital divide.
In this spotlight, IBM experts will explore the highlights and lowlights of technology in 2025, and discuss the lessons we can learn from both the successes and failures of the past year.
Spotlight 2 - 2026 Predictions and Impacts
In this spotlight, speakers will explore the latest emerging technologies, trends, and digital innovations that are shaping our world, and discuss their potential impact on the future of work, society, and the economy. Whether you're an established NED, tech enthusiast, a business leader, or simply curious about the latest developments in the digital age, this talk will provide valuable insights and inspiration for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology.
Speakers:
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| Ame Stuart - Senior Partner, Strategic Partners Leader UKI, IBM Consulting |
Leon Butler - General Manager, IBM UK and Ireland |
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Agenda:
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM - Registration & Coffee
10:00 AM - 10:10 AM - Introduction to the Day
10:10 AM - 10:35 AM - Keynote
10:35 AM - 11:05 AM - Spotlight Topic 1
11:05 AM - 11:20 AM - Break
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM - Spotlight Topic 2
11:50 AM - 12:20 PM - Panel Discussion
12:20 PM - 12:30 PM - Wrap Up & Close
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM - Lunch