Make Your Business Quantum-Ready Today

Abstract

Quantum computing is a different way of computation that merges quantum mechanics with computer science and information theory, with a large enough payoff for managers to feel compelled to invest. At the same time, it is also uncertain when – if at all -- quantum computing will become widely available for mainstream business applications. Thus, managers will find themselves torn between 1) waiting for the technology to mature and risking competitors taking the lead and 2) investing now but with no sight of returns on this investment. This article provides a way out: Executives can invest today in quantum-inspired computing that emulates quantum computing on existing specialized digital computers. Any investment today will carry over to (true) quantum computing when it becomes available, and there are computational gains to be had right away for certain architectures and specific business applications. To get quantum ready, first, managers can use the information on providers and use cases in the existing computing ecosystem. Second, they should take stock of their companies’ needs for advanced computing to gauge the fit of quantum applications with their business requirements. Finally, they should try out pilot studies with quantum-inspired computing.

Keywords: quantum readiness, quantum computing, quantum-inspired computing, digital annealing, technology management