No one could have imagined the fundamental impact the Internet would have on both society and the economy-changing our lives forever. The Internet has already transformed the way we work, live, play, and learn. And, this is only the beginning.

The extraordinary growth and transformation of the Internet is unprecedented, but what does the future of technology hold, and where is the Internet heading? Business executives, technologists, and policymakers are not only asking these questions-they also are looking for a map of the future that will help them assess changes in the Internet, and possible out-comes and implications of those changes for business, national policy, and regulation.

Recent research by Cisco IBSG has identified 10 major technology trends that we believe are shaping the direction of the Internet today and, most certainly, will change its direction in the future.

1. A World Gone Mobile
2. Cloud: A New Way of Delivering Technology
3. Everything Can Be Delivered Over-the-Top
4. Big Data: The New Oil
5. A Global Village: Connecting the Unconnected
6. Powerful Devices: The World in the Palm of Your Hand
7. Bring Your Own Device: The Consumerization of IT
8. The Internet of Things Is Already Evolving
9. The New Mobile
10. Converged Networks: A New Platform Architecture

Cisco IBSG has developed a plausible scenario for how these 10 disruptive technology trends might come together to shape the future of the Internet. We call this the "New Digital Explosion." Why "new"? Changes in devices, networks, applications, delivery models, user behaviors, and mobility will create a step change in demand for and reliance on the Internet.

The New Digital Explosion is not just about technology; it covers all aspects of consumers, the information and communications (ICT) industry, and global/national economies. One thing is certain: the New Digital Explosion will change the ICT industry, impacting all players across the value chain: There will be greater competition, redefined value chains/business models, and new strategies, resulting in both new challenges and business opportunities. Furthermore, the role of government will need to evolve to create an environment that encourages business and technology innovation, and investment and competition to the greater benefit of their societies.

Cisco IBSG's recent point of view, The Next Generation of the Internet: Revolutionizing the Way We Work, Live, Play, and Learn, provides details on the 10 major technology trends, maps out the future of the Internet, and discusses the implications and opportunities for Internet businesses and governments in this new hyper-connected world.