The Ecosystem First strategy for Quantum Computing makes sense; here’s why

The allure of Quantum computing lies in its promise for solving problems currently intractable with classical computing. Some application examples are 1. better risk models to improve stability, predictability, and growth of world economies; 2. Development of advanced, more sustainable new materials, 3. boosting binary classification of classical data in machine learning for better predictions from features in data….and so on. The use cases are wide-ranging and have an outsized impact potential for society.

Quantum computing can affect these use cases by drawing on the fundamental laws of nature to carry out calculations using quantum bits - qubits. Qubits allow for the exploration of exponentially larger compute spaces. Give quantum computers the potential to solve highly complex problems of which even the most potent classical supercomputers are incapable. In colloquial terms, if you want to examine x combinations that can occur in y number of positions and z space…Qubits can allow exponential space due to their nature.

However, not every problem is a quantum-solvable problem. In other words, there are problems that you'd generally assume are very complex and would be perfect for Quantum but cannot be solved by quantum computing. Consider tasks involving classical data manipulation or standard sorting algorithms; these, while challenging, inherently lack a quantum structure and are not significantly sped up by quantum computing. (PS: Initially, I was surprised that space is not a quantum-ready use case)

SO, WHAT IS AN ECOSYSTEM FIRST STRATEGY FOR QUANTUM COMPUTING?

I discussed ecosystems and their strategic roles in growing businesses in prior blog posts (See: here and here) . An ecosystem-first strategy for quantum computing prioritizes the development of a diverse, capable, and collaborative community of stakeholders, including developers, researchers, and businesses, over building a platform for market intermediation. You need a group representing various industries, commit top talent to work, and have experience in nascent/early-stage technologies.

In the last 5-7 years, Quantum computing has surpassed expectations and progressed rapidly. However, the technology is still in its infancy, with many "unknown unknowns" that we must overcome to make it practical and scalable.

Exploring these "unknown unknowns" is particularly challenging for Quantum computing, as it requires extensive research, experimentation, and collaboration to explore its potential fully. The scope of discovery in Quantum Computing differs from what we have seen in the last few decades, needing the development of new approaches and methodologies that are only recently developed or still emerging.

An ecosystem-first approach in Quantum computing can provide the resources and support for researchers to take risks, pursue unconventional lines of inquiry, identify value, and sometimes serendipitously discover the unexpected.

WHY DOES AN ECOSYSTEM FIRST STRATEGY FOR QUANTUM COMPUTING MAKE SENSE?

Here are the top 5 reasons for using an ecosystem-first approach for quantum computing makes sense:

1. Accelerate adoption: In Quantum Computing, it is improbable that a single entity can predict or build new hardware, software, and talent in isolation. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing among multiple stakeholders, including academics, researchers, and industry experts, become essential for advancing the field.Furthermore, interdisciplinary collaborations can also be fruitful in quantum computing research. Combining expertise from different fields, such as computer science, physics, mathematics, and engineering, can lead to the discovery of novel applications and the development of new technologies and help unlock their full potential.An ecosystem-first strategy encourages experimentation and exploration of the technology. By creating a shared innovation space where users can test and develop new applications and use cases, you can unlock new potential and help accelerate the development of practical quantum computing applications.
2. Create a diverse community: By creating an ecosystem that attracts funding, top talent, and cutting-edge technology, a robust ecosystem can provide researchers with the resources they need to pursue high-risk, high-reward research projects that have the potential to lead to breakthroughs in the field.
3. Develop standards: Quantum computing is the first time in computing that the technology has branched. As such, there are no established standards and protocols. A robust ecosystem can provide the cornerstone for setting the standards and help reduce the costs and complexity of adoption, making it easier for businesses and individuals to adopt the technology.
4. Share risk & accelerate development: Winds in a developing, highly complex field can shift quickly, perhaps with a breakthrough or an unanticipated discovery. An ecosystem-first strategy allows for bringing in users from the start, building strong communities that use the technology and contribute back, and effectively establishing a shared goal and de-risking technology development
5. Promote best practices: An ecosystem-first approach can promote the development of best practices for the technology, including ethical and responsible use, data privacy, and security, among others.

A close evaluation of the quantum computing landscape today shows that there are multiple approaches that the players are taking toward building their quantum computing business, which is not surprising, given the early stages of the technology.

Let's look at two such players to emphasize the contrast.         

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is adopting a platform-first methodology in establishing its presence in the quantum computing sector, exemplified by the introduction of Amazon Braket. Braket functions as a multi-faceted platform, linking various quantum computing providers with users and acting as an intermediary for quantum computing services within the market. AWS's approach involves creating the platform initially and subsequently granting access to the ecosystem. This strategy echoes their history of crafting immensely successful platforms on a global scale.

On the other hand, IBM is taking an ecosystem-first approach to quantum computing. Today, as the quantum computing leader, IBM has strategically chosen to build the technology architecture and the ecosystem of users before creating a platform that enables market intermediation.

In May 2016, IBM took a significant step by placing its inaugural 5-qubit quantum computing machine on the cloud, enhancing accessibility to quantum computing and democratizing its usage. This has fostered a diverse community, promoting knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation, breaking down entry barriers.

Over time, this engagement with the ecosystem has also allowed IBM to remain flexible and responsive to the needs of its community. By working closely with researchers, early developers, and other stakeholders, IBM gains insights into the challenges and opportunities within the quantum computing ecosystem, which informs the development of new tools, platforms, and applications that better meet the community's needs.

Of course, in a field that is still relatively nascent, it's challenging to predict which approach will ultimately prove the most successful definitively.

Nevertheless, my wager leans towards the ecosystem-first strategy, as its potential to unveil a plethora of "unknown-unknowns" makes it a promising starting point, especially for a technology provider. This methodology not only fosters innovation but also establishes a foundation for growth.

It's worth highlighting the contrasting strategies of IBM and AWS. While IBM's emphasis on cultivating a robust ecosystem early on positions them to develop a platform that can swiftly transition from early adopters to mainstream users, AWS's creation of Braket provides a fresh perspective on quantum computing's evolving landscape, illuminating various pathways to technological advancement.

I bet that an ecosystem established in its infancy, characterized by dynamism, possesses the potential to shape a platform that seamlessly integrates quantum computing into existing structures and workflows.

This ecosystem-first strategy not only enhances accessibility across a broader range of applications but also lays the foundation for a self-sustaining system capable of long-term flourishing.

Posted originally on??Bridgingchasm.com?dedicated to the growers & their obsession with adoption?

PS: This is an opinion piece and may not reflect my employer’s official views.