The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is fast approaching with the rate of current breakthroughs in technology ahead of any historic precedent. The new revolution will blur the boundaries between the physical, digital, and biological worlds. It will encompass advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, the Internet of Things, quantum computing and genetic engineering.

Suffice to say, it will cause profound disruption to the way people work, live, and communicate. Unlike anything humankind has ever experienced, it is evolving exponentially and will disrupt every industry, in every country. It is therefore paramount for global stakeholders to work in an integrated and comprehensive way to prepare for the colossal tide approaching.

At the Champions Speakers Agency, we have created a guide to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Use our frequently asked questions to learn more:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fourth Industrial Revolution:

• Who Devised the Term Fourth Industrial Revolution?
• What does the Fourth Industrial Revolution Encompass?
• What makes the Fourth Industrial Revolution so Disruptive?
• What are the Advantages of the Fourth Industrial Revolution?
• How can Businesses Future-proof Themselves in Preparation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution?
• How will the Fourth Industrial Revolution Affect the Labour Market?
• What is Web 3.0?
• Who are the Leading Figures in the Fourth Industrial Revolution?
• How do I book a Fourth Industrial Revolution Speaker?

Who Devised the Term Fourth Industrial Revolution?

The term Fourth Industrial Revolution was popularised by Klaus Schwab, founder and Chief Executive of the World Economic Forum, in his book titled The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Klaus discusses the driving technologies behind the revolution, key trends, and the impacts they will have on businesses, governments, and people.

In his book, Klaus defines the 4IR as “creating a world in which virtual and physical systems of manufacturing cooperate with each other in a flexible way at the global level.”

Source: Iberdrola

What does the Fourth Industrial Revolution Encompass?

The driving force behind the 4IR is emerging technologies including, AI, blockchain, faster computing, VR and AR, biotechnology, robotics, The Internet of Things, and 3D printing. The 4IR is a fusion of all those technologies, which create products and services that are indispensable to modern life.

What makes the Fourth Industrial Revolution so Disruptive?

Unlike its linear predecessors, the 4IR is evolving exponentially. This means there is simultaneous growth occurring as further breakthroughs in different fields such as nanotechnology, gene sequencing, renewable energy, and quantum computing take place. It is the fusion of those technologies that make the 4IR so radically different to anything humanity has experienced, with its profound impact on physical, biological, and digital domains.

What are the Advantages of the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

The disruption will result in a transformation of entire systems of governance, production, and management. This has the potential to raise global income levels and the quality of life for people around the world. Furthermore, on the supply side, there will be radical improvements in efficiency and productivity, and the cost of trade will diminish leading to new markets and a boost in economic growth.

How can Businesses Future-proof Themselves in Preparation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

Digital transformation will be one of the greatest challenges faced by businesses, therefore, it is critical for organisations to become agile and innovative so that they can anticipate, adapt, and react to change. Companies must continuously invest in technological infrastructure, education, and employee training programmes and crucially, develop a 4IR strategy.

How will the Fourth Industrial Revolution affect the labour market?

Within the next 20 years, experts predict that 45% of jobs will become automated. This will likely lead to a rise in inequality in the labour market, due to a sizeable increase in segregation between low and high-skilled people and their pay. However, the disruption could result in a net increase in safe and rewarding jobs. There will likely be a bigger emphasis on talent and skills such as emotional intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking, which will be highly valued. People will have to reskill and continuously build on their learning and development.

What is Web 3.0?

A continuation of Web 1.0 and 2.0, Web 3.0 will be revolutionary with decentralised web software protocols and an emphasis on delivering fair internet where users are in control of their data and identity. It will also incorporate token-based economies and blockchain technologies.

If you want to find out more on Web3, read our blog What Is Web3 & Who Are The Best Speakers To Share Their Expertise on the Future of the Internet?

Who are the Leading Figures in the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

We have a selection of the most distinguished 4IR experts who are at the forefront of technological innovation and are actively shaping the 4IR through their pioneering work. These leading experts are the driving force behind the 4IR, and they can be booked for corporate events and conferences to share the latest technological breakthroughs and their insight into the 4IR.

• Henrik von Scheel - Originator of the Fourth Industrial Revolution
• Luc Julia – Co-creator of Apple’s Siri & Artificial Intelligence Expert
• Daniel Hulme – Leading Expert in Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies
• James Whittaker – Distinguished Engineer & Microsoft’s Technical Evangelist
• Thomas powers – Director for 9Spokes & Expert on Software As A Service
• Neal Stephenson – Bestselling Author of Speculative Fiction & Coiner of Metaverse
• K D Adamson – Leading Technology Writer 
• Ali Parsa – Founder of Babylon Health
• Kevin Warwick – British Engineer & Eminent Technology Speaker

How do I Book a Fourth Industrial Revolution Speaker?

To book a Champions Speaker for your corporate event to discuss the Fourth Industrial Revolution, contact us by filling in our online contact form.