Business ROI is a moving goalpost
The timeline to practical quantum computing applications is another sobering reality. Industry experts suggest we’re still 7 to 15 years away from quantum systems capable of handling production workloads. This extended horizon makes it difficult to justify significant investments. Until then, more immediate returns could be realized through existing technologies.
I’ve spent the past 10 years consulting on quantum computing projects, both cloud and not cloud, where the best path to value was not to use quantum computing at all. In many instances, the client ignored my recommendation and pressed on. In those instances, when the objective changed from “finding business value” to “developing an emerging technology,” I learned of failed projects. I always tell enterprises they won’t profit from building their own IT systems around R&D. Let others experiment.
The distraction factor cannot be overlooked. Companies pursuing quantum computing initiatives often divert valuable resources, including financial and human capital, from more pressing technological needs. Quantum computing may eventually deliver on its promises, but organizations must focus on solving today’s business problems with today’s tools.
