Applications of Information

&
Communication Technologies

Week 03 & 04
1: Emerging Technologies & Future Trends
2: Basic ICT Productivity Tools:

Prof: Tahir Sabtain Syed.

 Emerging Technologies

• 5G Technology: The fifth generation of wireless technology, 5G,

promises to deliver significantly faster internet speeds and lower
latency. It will enable new applications like autonomous vehicles,
smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI has made significant advancements
with machine learning and deep learning algorithms enabling
computers to perform tasks that previously required human
intelligence. AI is used in applications such as natural language
processing, image recognition, and autonomous decision-
making.
• Quantum Computing: Quantum computing has the potential to
revolutionize computing by performing complex calculations at
speeds unimaginable with classical computers.
 Emerging Technologies

• Blockchain Technology: Originally created for cryptocurrencies

like Bitcoin, blockchain technology has broader applications in
secure and transparent data management.
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR
technologies are transforming how we interact with information
and our environment. They are used in gaming, education,
training, and even medical simulations.
• Edge Computing: With the growth of IoT devices, edge
computing has become essential. It involves processing data
closer to the source, reducing latency and improving real-time
decision-making.
 Future Trends in ICT

• Internet of Things (IoT): The IoT will continue to grow,

connecting more devices and generating vast amounts of data.
This will require advancements in data management, security,
and communication protocols.
• Cybersecurity: With the increasing reliance on digital
technologies, cybersecurity will remain a top priority. New
threats will emerge, and innovative security solutions will be in
high demand.
• Cloud Computing: Cloud services will continue to evolve, offering
more scalability and flexibility. Edge computing and hybrid cloud
solutions will become increasingly popular.
 Future Trends in ICT

• Big Data and Analytics: The amount of data generated will

continue to grow exponentially. Big data analytics will be crucial
for extracting valuable insights and making informed decisions.
• Smart Cities: The trend of smart cities involves making cities
more efficient and livable by using technology. This includes
things like connected infrastructure, transportation, and data-
driven urban planning to improve the quality of life for cities.
• Sustainable ICT: Environmental concerns will drive the
development of more energy-efficient technologies and the
adoption of green ICT practices.
• Human-Machine Interaction: Human-machine interfaces,
including brain-computer interfaces, will evolve, enabling more
natural and efficient interactions with technology.
 Formal communication tools
• Email is a widely used formal communication tool for businesses,
institutions, and individuals. It offers a written record of
conversations, making it ideal for professional exchanges. Gmail
and Microsoft Outlook are two of the most popular email
platforms, and both provide essential features for effective
communication.
• Gmail: Gmail is an email service provided by Google. It allows
users to send and receive emails, attachments, and organize their
messages. Key features include a user-friendly interface, spam
filters, and the ability to integrate with other Google services like
Google Calendar. Proper email etiquette in Gmail includes using
clear subject lines, addressing recipients appropriately, and
keeping emails concise and to the point.
 Formal communication tools
• Creating and Sending Emails: Gmail's user-friendly interface makes it
easy to compose and send emails. Click the "Compose" button, and a
new email window will open. Enter the recipient's email address,
subject, and the email content.
• Attachments and Formatting: Gmail allows you to attach files and
documents to your emails. Be cautious about file size limitations. You
can also format text, insert links, and use basic formatting options.
• Labels and Filters: Gmail offers labels and filters, which help you
organize and categorize your emails. For formal communication, you
can create labels for different projects or clients and use filters to
automatically sort incoming emails.
• Searching and Archiving: Gmail's powerful search function allows
you to find past emails quickly. You can also archive emails to keep
your inbox clutter-free.
 Formal communication tools
• Microsoft Outlook: Microsoft Outlook is another email and
personal information management system commonly used in
business environments. It offers email, calendar, task
management, and contact management features. Proper
etiquette in Outlook involves using a professional email
signature, managing your inbox effectively, and responding to
emails in a timely manner.
• Creating and Sending Emails: In Outlook, click "New Email" to
compose a new message. You can enter the recipient's email
address, subject, and email content. Outlook provides a rich text
editor for formatting.
 Formal communication tools
• Attachments and Formatting: Attach files and documents to your
emails in Outlook, ensuring they don't exceed size limits. The
email editor allows for text formatting and linking.
• Folders and Rules: Outlook features folders and rules for email
organization. You can create folders for different projects or
clients and use rules to automatically sort incoming messages.
• Searching and Archiving: Outlook offers robust search
capabilities, making it easy to find past emails. You can also
archive emails to declutter your inbox.
• Calendar Integration: Outlook integrates with a calendar for
scheduling and managing appointments. This is valuable for
setting up formal meetings and appointments.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Screen Sharing and Presentations: Google Meet allows you to
share your screen with participants. You can also give control
of your screen to others for collaboration.
• Recording Meetings: You can record Google Meet sessions,
which is valuable for those who cannot attend the live
meeting. However, ensure you have permission to record
participants.
• Integration with Google Workspace: Google Meet integrates
with other Google Workspace apps, such as Google Docs,
Sheets, and Slides, making it easy to collaborate on documents
during meetings.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Video Conferencing Overview: Video conferencing tools enable
real-time visual and audio communication between individuals or
groups in different locations. They are essential for remote work,
virtual meetings, webinars, and online collaboration. Here's a
detailed look at some popular video conferencing platforms:
• Google Meet: Google Meet is a video conferencing platform by
Google. It allows users to hold online meetings, webinars, and
virtual conferences. It is known for its ease of use and integration
with other Google Workspace apps like Gmail and Google
Calendar.
• Scheduling and Hosting Meetings: Google Meet integrates
seamlessly with Google Calendar. You can schedule a meeting
and send invitations to participants directly from your calendar
event.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Microsoft Teams: Microsoft Teams is a part of the Microsoft 365
suite. It combines video conferencing with chat, file sharing, and
collaboration features. It is widely used in business settings for
team communication and online meetings.
• Scheduling and Hosting Meetings: Microsoft Teams allows you
to schedule and host meetings directly within the Teams app. You
can invite participants from your organization or external guests.
• Meeting Etiquette in Microsoft Teams: Similar to Google Meet,
maintain proper meeting etiquette, including punctuality,
microphone muting, and a professional appearance.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Collaboration Features: Microsoft Teams offers chat, file sharing,
and integration with Microsoft 365 apps (Word, Excel,
PowerPoint). You can collaborate on documents within the
Teams environment.
• Channels and Organization: Teams uses a channel structure for
organizing discussions and documents. You can create channels
for different projects or teams.
• Live Events: Microsoft Teams provides the option to host live
events, ideal for webinars and large-scale presentations.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Zoom: Zoom is a widely used video conferencing platform that
gained popularity for its simplicity and reliability. It is suitable for
various purposes, from one-on-one meetings to large webinars.
• Scheduling and Hosting Meetings: Zoom offers easy scheduling
and hosting options. You can create one-time or recurring
meetings.
• Meeting Etiquette in Zoom: Zoom etiquette is similar to other
platforms. Ensure proper video and audio settings, microphone
use, and participant engagement.
 Video Conferencing tools
• Security Features: Zoom has implemented various security
features, including meeting passwords, waiting rooms for
participants, and the ability to lock a meeting once all expected
participants have joined.
• Recording and Transcription: Zoom allows you to record
meetings and provides transcription services. This is useful for
archiving and sharing meeting content.