Deloitte University adds AT&T 5G and Edge Compute to drive advanced learning
Deloitte and AT&T signed an agreement to bring 5G networks and edge computing services to Deloitte University, enhancing the learning and leadership training center’s digital experience.
5G networks allow for lightning fast data connections, boosting data compression to more than 300 Mbps compared to 50 Mbps for current 4G networks, while considerably reducing latency. A Deloitte report from earlier this year estimated that approximately 50% of mobile connections in the US will use 5G by 2025.
Edge computing, meanwhile, allows for devices or local computers to process data rather than sending it out to data centers, enabled by powerful edge computer chips than can tackle advanced tasks like machine learning. Edge computing allows for real-time processing without latency, allowing smart applications and devices to respond to data almost instantly. Together with 5G, edge computing unlocks useful connected device applications in the Internet of Things, as well as more effective augmented and virtual reality experiences.
The new agreement will see AT&T’s 5G and Multi-access Edge Compute (MEC) technology added to the 700,000 square foot center in Westlake, Texas. Situated on a working ranch, Deloitte University (DU) was launched in 2011 and hosts training and leadership development programs delivered through interactive workshops and simulation exercises in small team environments.
Senior Deloitte professionals run learning programs for employees from the accounting and consulting giant, as well numerous outside organizations. DU has welcomed senior leadership from 96% of Fortune 100 companies, and 75% of Fortune 500s.
The AT&T 5G and MEC tech integration is slated to be completed by summer 2020, and will be used to enhance experiential learning and guest experiences, supporting specific use cases.
"AT&T 5G will be the foundation that enables us to develop and test new interactive digital teaching and collaboration models,” said Kevin Westcott, vice chairman of Deloitte LLP and US telecommunications, media & entertainment leader. “As we prepare our people for the future of work, it's important to incorporate leading technologies so that our people – and those of our clients - can learn in new and exciting ways and gain experiences at Deloitte University that they can't easily gain anywhere else."
DU will use both gamification and VR/AR to enhance its experiential learning. Gamification and VR/AR are especially appealing to Gen Z and millennial learners, according to research from the firm.
Aside from enabling data intensive technologies like mixed, augmented, and virtual reality apps that blend the physical and digital world, 5G and edge integration will also allow for select on-site data to be more private and secure.
“Consistently updating our skills and learning for life is becoming a key part of our world. Gamification, role playing, and virtual collaboration – more powerfully enabled by 5G and Edge – means faster and more effective learning for everyone, no matter where they are in their career,” said Mo Katibeh, chief marketing officer, AT&T Business.
