Emerging Technologies: The case of Edge Computing

Edge infrastructures–– as a newly emerging computing paradigm––are one form of industry response to the need to diversify our digital infrastructures. While not replacing centralized digital processes, edge is one way, this report argues, to facilitate a transition to more decentralised arrangements. The report gives an overview of the expectations and promises of edge. Focusing on SMEs, the report also identifies five areas of opportunity for edge impleme ntation: the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, advances in manufacturing andhealthcare, future retail needs, and smart city developments.