You may not realize it, but you rely on 5G networks daily for a variety of experiences. Technology rapidly advances, and 5G is the fifth generation of wireless cellular technology. It has been implemented across the globe to maintain open communication via phones, computers, and smart televisions, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity than previous iterations.
Meanwhile, edge computing, a decentralized computing model where data processing occurs close to the data source, is gaining traction, bringing computation and data storage closer to the point of use. This is in stark contrast with cloud computing, where data storage is kept distant from the point of use. These critical technological advancements are extremely important for digital transformation across the energy, healthcare, and manufacturing industries.
Implementing these technologies has come with obstacles, however. The challenges in adopting 5G and edge computing include integration complexities with decades-old infrastructure, security concerns regarding data privacy issues, and skill gaps in managing these technologies in the field.
Despite these hurdles, it remains critical that these technologies be used to their fullest extent to avoid the consequences of falling behind, such as reduced market competitiveness, an inability to leverage advanced applications like AI effectively, and missed opportunities for operational efficiency and innovation.
Mission to Keep the World Connected
This is why the role of someone like Manish Rajendran is essential. As the Managing Director and 5G & Edge CTO at Deloitte Consulting, Manish has extensive expertise in cutting-edge connectivity solutions, private networks, network automation, and edge computing. He has been a technology, media, and telecommunications leader for over twenty years.
He has also achieved many important standard-setting accomplishments, such as designing and integrating private 5G solutions for expansive commercial spaces, deploying edge and virtual network services platforms for large enterprises, and architecting cross-domain network automation platforms for communication service providers.
His work has laid the foundation for new applications that are reshaping industries.
Transformative Power of 5G and Edge Computing
Manish's skilled leadership in 5G and edge computing has been instrumental in unlocking the transformative potential of these technologies. One of the most pressing benefits of 5G and edge computing is that it enables next-generation applications that will reduce manual labor, save money, and optimize business workflow in tangible ways.
These include smart manufacturing (real-time monitoring and control of production processes), remote patient care (telemedicine and remote surgeries with minimal latency), and better coordination of autonomous robots (enabling enhanced mobility and decision-making capabilities).
These capabilities have led to groundbreaking solutions across numerous industries, with 5G and edge computing paving the way for smart grid management and distributed energy resource optimization in the energy field. They have also allowed for advanced imaging, diagnostics, and better remote patient monitoring in healthcare. In manufacturing, they have improved overall quality control through innovations such as AI-powered visual inspection.
Real-World Applications from Experience
One of the largest 5G and edge computing-related jobs that Manish has been involved with was modernizing the grid infrastructure for a US-based utility company. To do this, he had to leverage private 5G, edge communication, and AI to solve the problem.
"My role was to lead the design of a system that can analyze power consumption patterns, detect anomalies, and enable real-time grid control to address emergencies instantly. This initiative will result in superior power consumption management and improved safety and contribute to the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions. It's a project that showcases how advanced technology can drive positive change in critical industries like energy," Manish says.
Ultimately, this enabled real-time grid control for instant emergency response and positively impacted the lives of thousands by improving power consumption management, enhancing safety, and contributing to net-zero emissions goals.
Overcoming Implementation Challenges
Throughout his career, Manish has developed tried-and-true strategies for overcoming the obstacles standing in the way of critical innovation. His plan for scaling emerging solutions includes building partnerships and developing standardized implementation frameworks. "Implementing these new technologies at scale requires not just technology leadership but also the right partnerships and ecosystem to ensure successful operationalization," he explains.
The other primary challenge that Manish has faced stems from what he calls the "overabundance of options." The number of domains and technology vendors can complicate decision-making and add technical debt in the long run. To help solve these issues, Manish has found that adopting open standards and interoperable solutions and implementing robust orchestration and management platforms can help substantially.
Looking to the Future
Manish is passionate about the future, and the advancements 5G and edge computing will continue to bring. From integrating AI and machine learning to expanding private 5G networks across industries and developing new use cases leveraging ultra-low latency and high bandwidth, He sees a world of possibilities beyond the horizon.
"My goal is to continue driving innovation in 5G, edge computing, and AI across sectors such as energy, healthcare, and smart manufacturing. I aim to be at the forefront of impactful transformations, including smart grid development, distributed energy resource management, Operation Technology transformation, and advanced quality sensing for manufacturing."
These technological advancements can bring about substantial change by embracing innovations within 5G networking and edge computing instead of resisting them. Through accelerated digital transformation, new business models, and optimized resource management, 5G and edge computing have the power to fundamentally redefine digital boundaries, enhance environment sustainability, and advance net zero goals.
