Survey Surprise: Quantum Now in Action at Almost One-Third of Sites

Since first discussed more than a decade back, quantum computing development has been relegated to supercomputing labs, with its requirements for sizeable investments and super-chilled environments. But it appears that quantum computing is now entering the mainstream in a big way.

At least that’s what a recent survey published by IEEE reveals. Close to one-third of organizations, 30%, report they have “fully implemented” quantum computing, and another 35% are in the process of implementing. Given the nature of IEEE, a cutting-edge engineering association, the study may have involved the more tech-savvy of the world, and therefore reflect greater-than-average acceleration of technologies such as quantum. Still, two-thirds of technology-proficient organizations now actively engaged with quantum computers is an eye-opener.

The use cases for quantum — scientific research, complex simulations — have been documented for a number of years. However, with the arrival of artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, on the scene, quantum technology may start finding more mainstream business use cases. In a separate report out of Sogeti (a division of Capgemini Group), Akhterul Mustafa calls an impending mashup of generative AI and quantum computing as the “tech world’s version of a dream team, not just changing the game but also pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible.”

The convergence of generative AI and quantum computing beings “some pretty epic perks,” Mustafa states. For example, it enables the supercharging of AI models. “Training AI models is a beastly task that needs tons of computing power. Enter quantum computers, which can zip through complex calculations, potentially making AI smarter and faster.”

In addition, “quantum computers can sift through massive datasets in a blink. Pair that with generative AI’s knack for cooking up innovative solutions, and you’ve got a recipe for solving brain-bending problems in areas like health, environment, and beyond.”

Mustafa even points out that “new AI algorithms can run on regular computers but act like they’ve got quantum powers, possibly giving AI an extra edge.”

See also: Quantum Leap: The Immediate Future of Quantum Technology and Its Potential to Reshape Our World

Quantum implementation challenges

Implementation of quantum is potentially another challenge for companies seeking the technology. A couple years back, Accenture published guidelines as to how to prepare for the quantum computing revolution, which are highly relevant today:

Learn it. Identify and prioritize the business problems in your enterprise that are best attacked by quantum through optimization, machine learning or sampling/simulation. Imagine how you could improve your business strategies if you were increasingly able to solve problems once thought intractable. That’s what quantum makes possible. So, start by understanding the implications of quantum computing on your industry and business.”

Build an innovation roadmap. “Taking a longer view of the enterprise quantum computing
journey will yield more benefit and business value. It’s important to define the linkage between your organization’s quantum program and broader business strategies.”

Identify leadership support and governance. “Design quantum proofs of concept/prototypes
and expand business experimentation for your selected use case(s) to the point of developing a minimum viable product. And incorporate long-term quantum objectives into your overall IT agenda, so that the initiative is prioritized and industrialized throughout the enterprise.”

Evaluate quantum hardware and software and start experimenting. “Navigating the rapidly evolving quantum ecosystem is difficult with an increasing variety of hardware vendors, middleware companies, software providers, academic institutions, startups and cloud-based service providers. Many of these ecosystem members focus on different aspects of quantum technology (i.e., digital, analog, annealing, gate), which means selecting the right company requires not only identifying which ones can understand your specific business use case(s), but also can provide the type of quantum technology you need.”