Technology is rapidly evolving and changing, and the advancements over the last two decades with the internet include a number of examples of how digital technology is a booming space. Society has gone from the internet to smart phones to GPS systems to artificial intelligence (AI) within a matter of years. As the World Economic Forum states, digital technology is undergoing rapid change and gaining significant power: “In addition to this trend towards increasingly rapid innovation, there is a second long-run trend. Technology has become increasingly powerful. While our ancestors wielded stone tools, we are building globe-spanning AI systems and technologies that can edit our genes.”
The Arkansas State University (A-State) Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Digital Technology – General online program equips students with essential skills that enable them to stand out as indispensable leaders and strategic managers in organizations in public and private sectors.
This innovative, multidisciplinary program integrates advanced technology and business concepts that prepare graduates to guide complex technical projects to completion. The program emphasizes topics including:
- Advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
- Cybersecurity risk management
- Agile project management methodologies
- Digital leadership and change management
- Strategic technology planning
What Is Digital Technology, and How Is it Disrupting Business Processes?
Digital disruption in business has followed a similarly steep arc compared to the growth of digital technology. In the early years of digital adoption, technology did basic tasks: word processing, making spreadsheets and managing rudimentary databases. Now, according to Market.us Scoop, consultants at Deloitte and McKinsey & Company say organizations in every sector are innovating and adopting technology at lightning speed to gain a competitive advantage. It concludes: “Digital technologies streamline processes, automate tasks, and eliminate time-consuming activities to increase productivity and save organizations both time and money.”
The digital transformation market size is expected to reach $8.5 billion by 2033. That investment drives demand for specialists in digital project management, process improvement directors and implementation analysts.
What Are Examples of Digital Technology Careers?
Digital technology is enterprise-wide and mandatory for organizations across all sectors. Any company that is lagging behind in the digital transformation is losing, according to Wyndr. Companies at the forefront use digital technology to streamline operations, automate tasks, accelerate decision-making processes, collaborate more effectively and innovate more successfully. “In a world where technology, markets, and external conditions are constantly changing, a digital workplace strategy lets you ride the chaos instead of being pushed around by it,” Wyndr notes.
Digital technology gained global acceptance and adoption during the COVID-19 lockdowns in a number of forums including businesses, education and government. For example, teachers used a variety of platforms and leveraged technology to provide personalized, interactive learning experiences. Research published in Science Direct found that those students developed and deepened problem-solving skills and growth mindsets: “They are also preparing for a more unpredictable and changing future in which technology will play a critical role.”
Additionally, businesses that adopted remote or technology-forward working environments thrived. According to Forbes, 98 percent of workers want to work remotely at least part time. Additionally, 26% of companies operate fully remote without an office. This emphasizes the prevalence of digital technology use across sectors.
Graduates of A-State’s program are well prepared for various roles in the digital technology field. They can pursue roles such as:
- Project manager: Project managers in digital technology oversee the implementation of complex tech initiatives. They are responsible for coordinating teams, managing resources and ensuring projects meet deadlines and budget constraints. The average base salary for project managers is $89,000 and can range up to $140,000.
- Director of process improvement: This role optimizes business processes through digital technology. Directors of process improvement analyze existing workflows, implement new technologies and lead initiatives to enhance operational efficiency. DPI salaries average $108,000 and go as high as $113,000.
- Implementation analyst: Implementation analysts work on deploying and integrating digital solutions within organizations. They collaborate with information technology (IT) teams and business units to ensure successful technology adoption and provide training and support. Implementation analysts earn an average of $97,000 annually and top out at $170,000.
Overall, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 17% growth in software development and related digital technology careers between 2023 and 2033, with employers adding about 189,200 openings annually. That represents a much faster expansion rate than all other careers the government tracks.
There is no way to overestimate the role of advanced digital technologies in transforming the way companies do business, according to Deloitte. In the financial services industry alone, the consultancy says, nearly nine out of 10 executives rate AI as critical to success. But, as McKinsey & Company notes, even high-performing companies are struggling to hire workers skilled in high-growth areas, suggesting this talent shortage impacts the adoption of advanced technologies.
Those who study digital technology through an advanced degree are prepared for successful careers. When considering strategies to future-proof your career, an Arkansas State Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Digital Technology can be a key to senior roles shaping the future of business and society.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s online Master of Science in Applied Digital Technology – General program.