It’s been a year of change in London. From technology innovations and tremulous government decision making as well as the evolving dynamics of digital businesses.

Fortunately in the tech and design sphere, the uncertainties surrounding Brexit and it’s effect on the market have been minimal thus far. However for our clients having a future-proof digital transformation strategy is more important than ever. For our candidates, the opportunities are still available but cautious budgets and free movement to work internationally are things to be aware of in the coming months.

Cogs discuss the evolving trends for 2019 and share our salary benchmark across our industry;

Evolving Technologies

There is no doubt that tech is evolving at lightning speed. This year developments across MR/ AR and VR, AI, IoZT, Progressive web applications (Web/Mobile Hybrid), Blockchain , Full Stack JavaScript Development (Node + React/Angular) and cyber security are all opening up a world of opportunity.  These technologies provide us with a clear idea about the ongoing development that’s taking place right now in the technology industry. Developers are working at an incredible pace globally to innovate and evolve their products and platforms. Everything seems to continually becoming smarter, cleaner, better and faster.

It’s vital business matches the pace of these evolving technologies to outshine their competitors. An area we can see this demonstrated is in the continued rise of the internal innovation lab or digital incubator model, as is the growing usage of specialist consulting teams to educate and evolve the offering of the monolithic enterprise business.

Internal Design Studios

Tech driven businesses are adapting and bringing their design and tech functions in-house. There is a huge desire to create newer more versatile design systems which become the anchor for design in bigger organisations. This allows them to outline clear millstones of delivery and to remain leaders in their field. Design systems, while they take a long time to complete – can often be done on a long project basis – perfect for accomplished product design contractors. This enables business to drive themselves forward and beat the competition

Voice UX Design and Content Creation

Voice is taking over as one of the largest user-interfaces for consumers. If will be interesting to see how UX  soon applies to voice control, when we are considering interaction through Alexa or Google Home as a by product of bigger brands.

Summary

As more businesses evolve and go through their digital transformation, there will be more competition for elite digital talent. The technology skills deficit still means that niche specialists are pushing average salaries up.

More and more businesses are using talent mapping strategies to help them identify the very best local and international talent.  A diverse and varied talent pool can help increase business capabilities, and enhance innovation.  Talent is the key to success and growth so the race is on for the best.

Our 2019 salary benchmark outlines an average salary range for the London market per our experience. There will always be variations and differences depending on the industry, size and type of business.

Cogs are able to support the digital transformation of all businesses and have access to talent from across the globe. Contact us to discuss how we can help you grow your team. If you are looking for opportunities in London, check out our live roles or contact the team today.