If you’ve been keeping an eye on our socials, you’ll know that we’re soon going to be celebrating 25 years in business. We’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come in the last two and a half decades – and we’re also fascinated by just how much our world has changed since the late 90s, when Managing Director Lloyd Harris and Technical Director Darren Phipps were setting up ECOM from scratch. Read more about our story.

Here’s a quick roundup of the major tech changes that have taken place in the last 25 years (and some other observations based on our own experience).

For an even faster (but just as fun) trip back in time, click here.

Exploring the advancement of technology

The rapid advancement of technology has revolutionised every aspect of our lives. It has impacted how we work, play, live, and connect with the people around us, to the point where we often wonder how we got by without it! From the introduction of smartphones and the birth of social media to the development of artificial intelligence, technology has connected people globally, enhanced productivity, and created endless possibilities for innovation since the turn of the century.

Then, there’s the internet. The widespread availability (and shareability) of information has linked us up with ideas, opinions and communities that we never would have had access to before. There are of course downsides to this blanket connectivity – but above all, the internet has brought people closer, facilitated incredibly fast communication, and provided never-before-seen opportunities. Plus, we now get to enjoy the many benefits of ecommerce; businesses can reach audiences quicker than ever before, and customers can take advantage of the speed and convenience of online shopping (we know we certainly do here in the office!).

What else has changed since 1998?

Major medical breakthroughs

Over the past 25 years, medical science has achieved significant breakthroughs, improving the quality of life for millions. Advances in genomics, personalised medicine, and cutting-edge treatments have extended lifespans, prevented disease, and increased our understanding of the human body. Advancements in diabetes medication and monitoring have been particularly incredible, and cancer research was changed forever by the introduction of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) in 2006.

Developments in renewable energy

We’re more aware of the environmental challenges we’re facing than ever before – and this has spurred a renewable energy revolution. Over the past 25 years, we have witnessed amazing progress in harnessing solar, wind, and other sustainable energy sources. Who would have thought that solar panels would be so widely used, and that there would be over a million electric or hybrid cars on UK roads at this point in 2023? This shift towards clean energy has contributed to reducing carbon emissions and creating a more sustainable future for our younger generations.

Space exploration

The truth is out there – and it’s safe to say, we’re closer to finding it! The past quarter-century has witnessed awe-inspiring milestones in space exploration. From the International Space Station launch to the Mars rovers’ discoveries, our quest for knowledge beyond Earth has pushed boundaries and ignited our curiosity about how the universe works.

Social progress and equality

Thankfully, we’ve made significant strides in social progress and equality. Movements advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, racial justice, and inclusivity have gained momentum, fostering a more compassionate and equitable society.

Cultural phenomena

From blockbuster movies to global sporting events, the past 25 years have given rise to cultural phenomena that have entertained, inspired, and brought people together across borders and backgrounds. One personal highlight here in the office is the rise of reality TV (who remembers the first series of Big Brother?)! And as far as technology is concerned, the rise of Apple and the iPhone has certainly shaped our culture, and the development of streaming services like Netflix for video and Spotify for music have completely altered the way we access this kind of content.

Global collaborations

International cooperation has flourished – not least because of better connectivity, thanks to the internet! – leading to groundbreaking collaborations and initiatives between countries. From the Paris Agreement on climate change to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the world has come together to address global challenges as a collective. Plus, a good case in point is just how differently these nations (and their people) would have managed the coronavirus pandemic if it had happened 25 or even 30 years earlier.

As we celebrate the best things to emerge from the last 25 years, we also have to acknowledge the progress that lies ahead. We’re so excited to see what the future has in store for our business, the IT industry, and, of course, wider society. Let’s hope we’re here in another 25 years, reflecting back on a time that’s been just as transformative.