The Ultimate Guide to Automated Report Generation for Smarter Insights

Drowning in data but thirsty for insights? You're not alone. Many organizations struggle to transform raw data into actionable intelligence. Automated report generation offers a solution, streamlining the reporting process and empowering data-driven decision-making. It's more than just a time-saver; it's a strategic lever that can unlock new levels of efficiency and insight. This post will guide you through the essentials of automated report generation, exploring its benefits, key features, and best practices for implementation. We'll also showcase how ClearPoint's strategy execution platform can help you harness the power of automated reporting to achieve your strategic goals. Whether you're a seasoned data analyst or just beginning your data-driven journey, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the world of automated report generation.

Key Takeaways

• Automated reports free up your time: Stop manually compiling data and start focusing on what matters: making strategic decisions. Automated reporting handles the tedious tasks, giving you back valuable time.
• Data quality is key: Think of your data as the foundation of a house. If it's shaky, the whole structure is at risk. Ensure your data is clean, consistent, and integrated for accurate and reliable reporting.
• The future of reporting is here: AI and machine learning are no longer futuristic concepts; they're transforming reporting today. Embrace these advancements to gain deeper insights and predict future trends.

What is Automated Report Generation?

Automated report generation is like having a tireless assistant who gathers, analyzes, and presents your data exactly how you need it, whenever you need it. Instead of manually compiling spreadsheets and charts, automated reporting software does the heavy lifting, freeing you to focus on what truly matters: understanding the story your data tells and making informed decisions. This empowers your team to move from tedious data crunching to strategic action. At ClearPoint, we understand the value of this shift, which is why we've embedded these principles into our platform.

Definition and Core Concepts

Automated reporting uses software to transform raw data into actionable insights, significantly faster than manual processes. This eliminates hours spent collecting and inputting data, allowing your team to focus on analysis and interpretation, as highlighted by Alteryx. These tools gather data from various sources, organizing it into easy-to-understand formats like charts and tables. This shift from manual reporting to automated insights is akin to trading a compass for a GPS: you still get where you need to go, but with greater precision and efficiency. Ultimately, automated reporting improves decision-making by providing readily available insights.

How It Works

Automated report generation tools seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, such as CRM platforms, automating the entire reporting workflow. For example, the Adobe PDF Services API helps automate report creation, ensuring reports are consistently up-to-date and readily available. This automation not only saves valuable time but also reduces labor costs, allowing your team to focus on higher-value tasks. A study by PwC suggests automation can cut costs in many finance processes, a testament to the efficiency gains possible through automation. These tools automate both data collection and report generation, providing crucial information to enhance data-driven decision-making. At ClearPoint, we've seen firsthand how this streamlined approach empowers our clients to achieve their strategic goals more effectively.

Benefits of Automated Report Generation

Automated report generation is more than a time-saver; it's a strategic lever that empowers organizations to make smarter decisions, improve accuracy, and adapt to evolving business needs. Let's explore the key advantages:

Save Time, Gain Efficiency

How much time do you and your team spend compiling reports each month? Likely more than you'd like. Automated reporting tools directly address this by automating data collection, analysis, and visualization. Think of it as having a tireless virtual assistant working behind the scenes, freeing up your team to focus on higher-value activities like strategy development and execution. This shift not only boosts productivity but also allows for faster, more agile responses to market changes. At ClearPoint, we've seen clients reclaim valuable time, sometimes entire days each month, by automating their reporting workflows. This efficiency gain translates directly into cost savings and improved team morale. What could you accomplish with an extra day or two back in your schedule? For more on streamlining your workflows, explore our resources on strategy execution.

Improve Accuracy and Consistency

Manual reporting is inherently prone to human error. A misplaced decimal or a missed data point can have significant consequences, especially when making critical business decisions. Automated reports minimize these risks, leading to more reliable results. They also ensure consistency in format and presentation, making it easier to compare data across different periods and departments. This consistency is crucial for identifying trends, tracking progress against goals, and making informed adjustments to your strategy. ClearPoint's platform, for example, enforces standardized reporting templates, ensuring that data is presented uniformly across the organization, reducing ambiguity and promoting clarity. For a deeper dive into building consistent reporting processes, check out our reporting resources.

Make Data-Driven Decisions

In today's data-rich environment, gut feelings are no longer enough. Organizations need access to accurate, timely information to make informed decisions. Automated reporting tools provide this crucial insight by transforming raw data into actionable intelligence. Imagine having real-time dashboards that track key performance indicators (KPIs) and automatically generate reports highlighting areas for improvement. This empowers you to identify potential roadblocks early on, adjust your strategy as needed, and ultimately, achieve better outcomes. ClearPoint's clients often tell us that access to real-time data has transformed their decision-making processes, allowing them to be more proactive and responsive to market dynamics. It's like having a GPS for your strategy, guiding you toward your destination with data-driven precision. Learn more about enhancing your decision-making process with our strategic planning resources.

Scale and Customize

As your organization grows, so too will your reporting needs. Automated reporting tools offer the flexibility to scale and customize reports according to your specific requirements. Whether you need to generate reports for different departments, regions, or projects, these tools can adapt to your evolving needs. This scalability is essential for maintaining a clear overview of your strategic performance as your organization expands. Furthermore, customization features allow you to tailor reports to specific audiences, ensuring that the information presented is relevant and actionable. At ClearPoint, we understand that one size doesn't fit all. That's why our platform offers a range of customization options, allowing you to create reports that align with your unique strategic framework and reporting preferences. This flexibility is key to driving organization-wide adoption and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. For more insights into addressing the challenges of scaling your reporting, take a look at our resources on business reporting challenges and solutions.

Key Features in Automated Report Generation Tools

Looking for the right automated report generation tool? Here’s a breakdown of essential features:

Data Integration

Seamless data integration is paramount. Your tool should connect with various data sources, from CRM and marketing automation platforms to databases and spreadsheets. This centralizes data collection and ensures your reports reflect a comprehensive view of your business performance, avoiding siloed information. As Citrin Cooperman notes, implementing the right data strategies is key to prompt, insightful, and actionable reporting. At ClearPoint, we've found that clients who prioritize data integration early on see faster time-to-value and improved decision-making.

Customization Options

One-size-fits-all reporting rarely meets the unique needs of every business. Look for tools offering robust customization options, allowing you to tailor reports to specific audiences and objectives. This includes flexibility in report formats, data visualizations, and the metrics you highlight. Remember, as we've discussed in our resources on business reporting challenges, even sophisticated software requires a thoughtful approach to change management for organization-wide adoption.

User-Friendly Interface

An intuitive interface is crucial for maximizing adoption and minimizing the learning curve. The platform should be easy to use for all users, regardless of technical expertise. Features like drag-and-drop functionality, pre-built templates, and clear visualizations empower team members to generate reports efficiently and extract meaningful insights without extensive training. This democratizes access to data and fosters a data-driven culture.

Advanced Automation

True automation goes beyond simply generating reports. Seek tools that offer advanced automation features, such as scheduled reporting, automated data refreshes, and triggered alerts based on specific performance thresholds. This frees up valuable time and resources, allowing your team to focus on analysis and action rather than manual report creation. However, be mindful of the challenges arising when transitioning from manual processes, such as data migration and system integration.

Real-Time Data Processing

In today’s fast-paced business environment, real-time data is essential for agile decision-making. Your reporting tool should process data in real time, providing up-to-the-minute insights into key performance indicators. This allows you to identify trends, react quickly to market changes, and make informed decisions based on the most current information. As MetricsWatch highlights, automation tools play a vital role in standardizing data for consistent reporting.

Collaboration Features

Effective reporting often involves collaboration across teams. Choose a tool that facilitates seamless collaboration, allowing users to share reports, provide feedback, and work together on data analysis. Features like shared dashboards, commenting functionality, and user-level permissions enhance communication and ensure everyone is working from the same data-driven foundation. Our experience at ClearPoint Strategy underscores the importance of collaborative data management, as detailed in our blog post on reporting challenges.

AI and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are transforming reporting. Look for tools that leverage these technologies to provide deeper insights, automate data analysis, and predict future trends. Features like anomaly detection, predictive modeling, and natural language processing unlock a new level of understanding and empower proactive, data-driven decisions. However, remember that data quality is paramount for AI-powered reporting, as DATAFOREST emphasizes in their discussion of reports automation and AI.

Top Automated Report Generation Tools

Choosing the right automated reporting tool can feel overwhelming. To help you narrow down the options, let’s look at some leading platforms, each with its own strengths. Think of it like choosing the right hiking boots—some are better for rocky terrain, others for long-distance treks. The “best” boot depends entirely on your needs.

ClearPoint Strategy

If your focus is strategy reporting and execution, ClearPoint might be your ideal fit. It’s designed to streamline your entire strategy process, from defining objectives and measures to tracking progress and reporting results. ClearPoint’s strength lies in its ability to connect the dots between projects, KPIs, and strategic goals. Imagine having a GPS for your strategy, guiding you every step of the way—that’s the value ClearPoint brings. It automates data collection and analysis, freeing up your team to focus on what matters most: achieving your strategic objectives. Plus, its built-in Success Framework provides expert guidance, even if you’re new to strategy execution. For more information on reporting and ClearPoint, visit our resource page.

Tableau

For visually stunning, interactive reports and dashboards, Tableau is a powerhouse. It excels at transforming raw data into compelling visuals that tell a story. Think of it as the artist's palette of the data world, allowing you to create dynamic and shareable dashboards that bring your data to life. Tableau’s user-friendly interface makes it accessible even to non-technical users, while its ability to handle large datasets makes it suitable for enterprise-level reporting. If data visualization is your priority, Tableau is definitely worth exploring.

Power BI

If your organization is deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem, Power BI offers seamless integration with tools you’re likely already using. It’s a versatile business analytics service that allows you to create interactive reports and dashboards, pulling data from various sources. Power BI’s strength lies in its accessibility and familiarity for Microsoft users, making the learning curve less steep. It’s like having a well-integrated tool in your workshop—it might not be the flashiest, but it gets the job done efficiently.

Google Data Studio

For teams looking for a free and collaborative reporting solution, Google Data Studio is a solid choice. It connects easily with other Google products, like Google Analytics and Google Sheets, making it simple to pull data and create visually appealing reports. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of reporting tools—versatile, accessible, and always at hand. While it may not have the advanced features of some paid platforms, its collaborative features and ease of use make it a great option for smaller teams or those just starting out with automated reporting.

Sisense

If you’re dealing with complex data from multiple sources, Sisense might be the solution you’ve been searching for. It specializes in simplifying data preparation and analysis, automating the often tedious process of data integration. It’s like having a dedicated chef who preps all your ingredients before you even start cooking—it saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating the perfect dish (or in this case, the perfect report). Sisense’s In-Chip technology also boosts performance, enabling faster report generation and insights.

Looker

For organizations that need a robust data platform with a focus on real-time insights and collaboration, Looker, now part of Google Cloud, is a strong contender. Its LookML modeling language simplifies the process of creating and sharing reports, while its integration with various data sources provides flexibility. Think of it as the architect of your data landscape, providing a structured framework for exploring and visualizing your data. If real-time data analysis and collaborative reporting are essential to your business, Looker is worth considering.

Overcome Implementation Challenges

Implementing automated report generation offers significant advantages, but it's not without its hurdles. Let's explore these common challenges and how to address them effectively.

Address Data Quality Issues

Think of your automated reports as a meticulously crafted cake. Even with the best recipe (your reporting software), if your ingredients (data) are subpar, the final product will fall flat. Automated tools depend on clean, consistent data. If your existing data is disorganized or riddled with errors, your reports will be unreliable. As DATAFOREST points out in their analysis of report automation and AI, clean data is essential for accurate reporting. Invest time in data cleaning and standardization to ensure a solid foundation for your reports. This might involve deduplicating records, correcting inconsistencies, and establishing clear data entry protocols. Think of it as prepping your ingredients before baking—a crucial step for success. At ClearPoint Strategy, we understand the importance of data integrity, and our platform is designed to help you maintain clean and consistent data for reliable reporting.

Integrate Scattered Data Sources

Many organizations find their data scattered across various systems. Marketing data might reside in one platform, sales in another, and financial data yet elsewhere. This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a holistic view of performance. Before implementing automated reporting, consolidate your data sources. This often involves integrating different systems or using a platform like ClearPoint Strategy, designed to connect disparate data sources and centralize reporting. This integration streamlines the flow of information, ensuring your reports draw from a complete and unified data set. This streamlined approach, as discussed by MetricsWatch on common reporting challenges, allows marketers to spend less time wrestling with data and more time deriving actionable insights.

Manage Resistance to Change

Even with clear benefits, some team members might resist adopting new reporting processes. Change can be unsettling, especially when it involves learning new tools or workflows. Address this by involving stakeholders early on. Communicate the benefits of automated reporting, provide thorough training, and address any concerns proactively. Highlight how the new system will simplify their work, improve accuracy, and free up time for more strategic tasks. ClearPoint Strategy's research on business reporting challenges underscores the importance of early stakeholder engagement for smooth adoption. Our platform is designed with user-friendliness in mind, making the transition as seamless as possible.

Balance Upfront Costs with Long-Term Benefits

Implementing new software or systems involves upfront costs, which can be a concern. However, consider the long-term return on investment. Automated reporting saves significant time and resources, reducing manual effort, minimizing errors, and enabling faster, data-driven decisions. As Apex Accountants notes in their discussion of automated financial reporting challenges, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Frame the implementation cost as an investment that will yield returns through increased efficiency and improved decision-making. At ClearPoint Strategy, we offer flexible pricing plans to help organizations of all sizes realize the long-term value of automated reporting.

Ensure Data Security and Compliance

With increasing data privacy regulations, security and compliance are paramount. Choose reporting tools that prioritize data security and offer features like access controls and encryption. Ensure your reporting processes comply with relevant industry regulations and internal policies. ClearPoint Strategy emphasizes robust data governance and advanced reporting tools for ensuring both actionable insights and regulatory compliance. By addressing these aspects proactively, you build trust and mitigate potential risks. Our platform is built with security and compliance as top priorities, giving you peace of mind.

Best Practices for Effective Automated Reporting

Automated reporting can revolutionize how your organization uses data, but only if implemented effectively. Think of setting up automated reports like planning a road trip—you need a clear destination and a reliable map to get there. At ClearPoint, we've seen firsthand how the right approach to automated reporting can transform organizations, and we're here to share some best practices gleaned from years of experience.

Define Clear Reporting Objectives

Before diving into automation, take a step back and define your reporting objectives. What questions are you trying to answer? Which decisions need supporting? Just as a GPS needs a destination, your automated reports need a clear purpose. Are you tracking progress toward strategic goals, monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), or identifying areas for improvement? Clearly defined objectives will guide your report design and ensure you're gathering the right data. This focus ensures your reports deliver value and drive decision-making. For example, if your objective is to improve customer satisfaction, your reports should focus on metrics like customer churn rate, Net Promoter Score (NPS), and customer feedback.

Ensure Data Quality and Accuracy

Garbage in, garbage out—a timeless adage that holds true for automated reporting. Data quality is paramount. Before automating, thoroughly audit your data sources to identify and address any inconsistencies or inaccuracies. This might involve cleaning up existing data, implementing stricter data entry protocols, or integrating data validation rules into your automated reporting system. Proactively addressing data quality issues upfront will prevent headaches down the road and ensure your reports are built on a solid foundation. For instance, if your sales data is riddled with duplicate entries, your automated sales reports will be misleading. Cleaning up this data beforehand is crucial.

Design User-Friendly Reports

Even the most insightful data is useless if it's presented in a confusing or inaccessible way. Design your reports with the end-user in mind. Prioritize clarity, conciseness, and visual appeal. Use charts, graphs, and other visualizations to make complex data easier to understand. Think about the specific needs of your audience and tailor the report format accordingly. Some may prefer a high-level overview, while others may need granular detail. A well-designed report isn't just about aesthetics; it's about effective communication. For example, a dashboard providing a high-level overview of key metrics is ideal for executives, while a detailed report segmented by product line might be more useful for product managers.

Review and Optimize Regularly

Automated reporting isn't a "set it and forget it" solution. Regularly review your reports to ensure they're still meeting your objectives and providing valuable insights. Are there any metrics that are no longer relevant? Could the reports be streamlined or improved? Just as you might adjust your route on a road trip based on traffic or road closures, you should be prepared to adapt your reports based on changing business needs and feedback from users. For example, if a new product launch significantly impacts your sales figures, you'll need to adjust your sales reports to reflect this change.

Provide Training and Support

Finally, ensure your team knows how to use and interpret the automated reports. Provide adequate training and ongoing support. This will empower them to leverage the data effectively and make informed decisions. Consider creating user guides, offering workshops, or establishing a dedicated support channel. Addressing potential resistance to change is crucial for successful implementation. By investing in training and support, you're not just implementing a new tool; you're fostering a data-driven culture within your organization. For instance, if your team is unfamiliar with interpreting data visualizations, providing training on how to read and understand charts and graphs will be essential.

Choose the Right Tool

Selecting the right automated reporting tool can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, how do you pinpoint the perfect fit for your organization? It's a critical decision, impacting your team's efficiency and the quality of your insights. Here's a breakdown of key factors to consider:

Assess Your Business Needs

Before diving into demos and trials, define your specific reporting requirements. What key metrics do you need to track? Who is your target audience for these reports? What kind of data do you need to collect and analyze? Understanding your needs upfront helps narrow the options and choose a tool aligned with your objectives. As Citrin Cooperman advises, focus on tools that deliver "prompt, current, insightful, and actionable" reporting tailored to your organizational requirements. At ClearPoint, we believe that a clear understanding of the problem is the first step towards a solution. Much like a GPS, you need to know your destination before you can chart the best course.

Evaluate Integration Capabilities

Your reporting tool shouldn't exist in a vacuum. It needs to integrate seamlessly with your existing data sources and business applications. Consider the systems you currently use—CRM, ERP, marketing automation—and ensure the reporting tool connects with them. This streamlines your data flow and prevents data silos. A smooth integration process is crucial for organization-wide adoption, as highlighted in ClearPoint Strategy's insights on common reporting challenges. A clunky integration leads to frustration and hinders effective reporting. Think of it like trying to fit puzzle pieces that don't quite match – it's a recipe for a headache.

Consider Scalability

Choose a tool that can grow with your business. As your organization expands and your data volume increases, your reporting needs will evolve. A scalable tool adapts to these changes, ensuring you don't outgrow your software and have to restart the selection process. This forward-thinking approach saves time and resources. As Apex Accountants points out, while automated systems offer significant advantages, consider the challenges of implementation and ensure the chosen solution scales effectively. Just as you wouldn't buy a tiny car for a growing family, you need a reporting tool that can accommodate future growth.

Analyze Pricing Models

Different tools offer different pricing structures, from subscriptions to usage-based fees. Analyze the pricing options and choose a model that aligns with your budget and anticipated usage. Don't just focus on the upfront cost; consider the long-term value and potential return on investment. As NetSuite emphasizes, the right reporting tools transform raw data into actionable insights, contributing to your bottom line. It's about finding the right balance between cost and capability.

Review Customer Support and Training

Finally, don't underestimate robust customer support and comprehensive training. A user-friendly interface is essential, but even intuitive tools require some initial learning. Look for vendors that offer thorough documentation, responsive customer support, and training programs to help your team get up to speed quickly. As MetricsWatch suggests, effective reporting should free up your team to focus on delivering insights, not wrestling with complicated software. A supportive vendor can be a valuable partner in your journey toward data-driven decision-making. They're like the experienced Sherpas guiding your team up the mountain of data analysis.

The Future of Automated Report Generation

The future of automated report generation is brimming with potential, fueled by advancements poised to reshape how we collect, analyze, and interpret data. Imagine reports that not only tell you what happened but also anticipate future trends and suggest actionable recommendations. That's the power these emerging technologies offer.

AI and Machine Learning Integration

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are set to revolutionize report generation. Think of AI as the engine and machine learning as its fuel. AI algorithms can sift through massive datasets, identifying patterns and anomalies that would take humans countless hours to uncover. Machine learning enhances this capability, enabling systems to learn from data and improve their accuracy over time. This means reports become more precise and insightful with each iteration. As Dataforest notes in their article on report automation, data quality is paramount. Even the most sophisticated AI can’t generate accurate reports from flawed data, so investing in data hygiene is essential. At ClearPoint Strategy, we recognize this challenge and provide tools within our platform to help you standardize and clean your data, ensuring your reports are built on a solid foundation.

Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics uses historical data to forecast future trends. This isn't about fortune-telling; it's about leveraging statistical models and machine learning to identify patterns and make informed predictions. Imagine knowing which marketing campaigns are most likely to succeed or anticipating potential bottlenecks in your supply chain. Predictive analytics empowers proactive decision-making, not just reactions to past events. This capability is increasingly integrated into automated reporting tools, offering a glimpse into the future directly within your reports. Just as marketing automation has streamlined reporting, as highlighted in MetricsWatch's insights, predictive analytics further enhances efficiency and strategic decision-making. ClearPoint's platform integrates these predictive capabilities, allowing you to anticipate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Natural Language Processing Advancements

Ever wish your reports could speak to you? Natural language processing (NLP) is making that a reality. NLP allows computers to understand and generate human language. In reporting, this means reports can be summarized in plain English, making complex data accessible to broader audiences. Imagine receiving a report that not only presents charts and graphs but also provides a concise narrative explaining the key findings. NLP can also power interactive Q&A features, allowing users to ask questions about the data and receive instant answers in natural language. This transforms reports from static documents into dynamic, conversational tools. As MetricsWatch observes, adapting to automated reporting is a strategic shift that addresses evolving data demands, and NLP plays a vital role in this transformation. At ClearPoint Strategy, we're exploring how NLP can further enhance our platform's reporting capabilities, making insights even more accessible and actionable.

Augmented Analytics and Data Storytelling

Data is only as valuable as the insights it reveals. Augmented analytics combines AI, machine learning, and natural language processing to enhance data analysis and storytelling. It's like having a data scientist embedded within your reporting tool. Augmented analytics can automatically identify key trends, highlight outliers, and even suggest potential explanations for observed patterns. This empowers you to move beyond simply presenting data to crafting compelling narratives that drive action. At ClearPoint Strategy, we believe that effective reporting is about telling a story with your data, as discussed in our resource on common reporting challenges. Augmented analytics provides the tools to create those stories, making your reports more engaging, insightful, and impactful. By embracing these advancements and implementing robust data governance, organizations can unlock the true potential of their data and gain a competitive advantage. ClearPoint's platform is designed to support these advanced analytics techniques, helping you transform data into actionable strategic insights.

Related Articles

• Boost Business Success with ClearPoint's Easy Report Generation
• Reporting Automation: Streamline Your Business Reporting
• Boost ROI with Report Automation: Save Time & Reduce Errors
• Top 5 Aspects & 9 Best Tools for Effective Data Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between manual reporting and automated report generation? Manual reporting involves manually gathering, analyzing, and compiling data into reports, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. Automated report generation uses software to do this work, saving time and improving accuracy. It's like the difference between walking and driving – both get you to your destination, but one is significantly faster and more efficient.

How can automated reporting improve my decision-making? Automated reporting provides readily available, accurate, and up-to-the-minute insights into your key performance indicators (KPIs). This allows you to identify trends, spot potential problems early on, and make informed decisions based on data rather than gut feelings. It's like having a GPS for your business, guiding your decisions with data-driven precision.

What are the key features to look for in an automated reporting tool? Essential features include seamless data integration with your existing systems, robust customization options, a user-friendly interface, advanced automation capabilities, real-time data processing, collaboration features, and ideally, some level of AI and machine learning integration. These features ensure the tool meets your specific needs and provides valuable insights.

What are some common challenges in implementing automated reporting, and how can I overcome them? Common challenges include ensuring data quality, integrating scattered data sources, managing resistance to change, balancing upfront costs with long-term benefits, and ensuring data security and compliance. These challenges can be addressed by prioritizing data cleaning, consolidating data sources, engaging stakeholders early on, focusing on the long-term ROI, and choosing secure, compliant tools.

What does the future hold for automated report generation? The future is bright, with advancements like AI, machine learning, predictive analytics, natural language processing, and augmented analytics poised to transform reporting. These technologies will enable more sophisticated data analysis, predictive capabilities, and more accessible, insightful reports that tell compelling data stories. Imagine reports that not only tell you what happened but also anticipate future trends and recommend actions – that's the power of these emerging technologies.