What do you do if you're an executive in computer networking and want to stay ahead of industry trends?

1 Read industry publications

One of the easiest ways to stay informed and updated on the current and emerging trends in computer networking is to read industry publications regularly. These can include magazines, newsletters, blogs, podcasts, or webinars that cover topics such as network design, security, performance, cloud computing, automation, or 5G. Reading industry publications can help you learn from experts, discover new solutions, and get insights into best practices and case studies. You can also use them to find out about upcoming events, conferences, or training opportunities that might interest you.

2 Join professional networks

Another way to stay ahead of the industry trends is to join professional networks and communities that are relevant to your field and role. These can include associations, forums, groups, or social media platforms that connect you with other executives, managers, engineers, or consultants in computer networking. Joining professional networks can help you expand your network, exchange ideas, ask questions, share feedback, and learn from peers. You can also use them to find mentors, partners, or collaborators for your projects or initiatives.

4 Experiment with new tools and technologies

A fourth way to stay ahead of the industry trends is to experiment with new tools and technologies that can improve your network performance, efficiency, security, or scalability. These can include software, hardware, protocols, or standards that offer new features, functions, or benefits for your network. Experimenting with new tools and technologies can help you test their capabilities, compatibility, and reliability, as well as identify their strengths and weaknesses. You can also use them to innovate, optimize, or automate your network processes or tasks.

5 Monitor network metrics and feedback

A fifth way to stay ahead of the industry trends is to monitor your network metrics and feedback regularly and systematically. These can include data, statistics, reports, or surveys that measure your network quality, availability, throughput, latency, or user satisfaction. Monitoring your network metrics and feedback can help you evaluate your network performance, identify issues or gaps, and implement improvements or changes. You can also use them to benchmark your network against industry standards or best practices, and demonstrate your value or impact.

6 Learn from your mistakes and successes

A sixth and final way to stay ahead of the industry trends is to learn from your mistakes and successes as an executive in computer networking. These can include challenges, failures, achievements, or lessons that you encounter or accomplish in your network projects or operations. Learning from your mistakes and successes can help you improve your skills, knowledge, and confidence, as well as avoid repeating errors or missing opportunities. You can also use them to celebrate your wins, acknowledge your losses, and set new goals or strategies.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?