Quantum Technologies Key Strategies and Opportunities for ICT Leaders 2025

Appendices A1 Explanation of indicators These indicators also influence one another, with risk being particularly affected by the combined impact of all other factors. Indicator explanations TABLE 1 IndicatorExplanation of indicator levelsQuantum computingQuantum sensingQuantum communications and security Maturity How developed and ready the technology is for practical use1 (very low) – Experimental stage, mainly theoretical, no real-world use cases 3 (moderate) – Some proven applications, but large-scale deployment is limited 5 (high) – Well-developed, widely adopted and integrated into various industriesBetween very low and moderate Early-stage technology with promising but limited practical applicationsModerate Some technologies (atomic clocks, magnetometers) are mature, but scalability is an issueModerate Technologies like quantum key distribution (QKD) and post- quantum cryptography (PQC) are mostly in use, but widespread adoption is still evolving Learning curve The effort and expertise required to adopt and use the technology1 (very low) – Very complex, requiring deep expertise in quantum physics and engineering 3 (moderate) – Specialized knowledge required, but practical applications are more intuitive 5 (high) – Easy to learn and integrate, with user-friendly tools and widespread training availableBetween moderate and high Requires deep quantum mechanics knowledge, but programming tools like Qiskit are emergingModerate Moderate complexity; applied fields like medical imaging and navigation are easier to understandBetween moderate and high Complex field requiring knowledge of quantum cryptography, entanglement and network security Implementation time and cost The resources required to deploy the technology1 (very low) – Expensive, ong-term investment with slow deployment 3 (moderate) – Moderate cost and time commitment, with potential long-term return on investment (ROI) 5 (high) – Cost-effective and quick to implement at scaleBetween very low and moderate Expensive and long-term investment required, with gradual improvementsModerate Some sensors are deployable now, but widespread use is costlyModerate High initial costs for infrastructure but improving with industry investments Scalability The ability of the technology to expand and handle increasing workloads1 (very low) – Limited scalability due to hardware, cost or environmental requirements 3 (moderate) – Some expansion possible, but significant improvements are needed 5 (high) – Easily scalable, deployable across industries with minimal barriersBetween very low and moderate Requires massive infrastructure (cryogenics, vacuum systems), making scaling difficultBetween very low and moderate Some sensors can be miniaturized, but others need complex environmentsBetween very low and moderate Infrastructure-heavy (fibre optics, satellites) and has distance limitations Risks Potential challenges or negative outcomes from adoption or non-adoption1 (very low) – Minimal risk, well-established technology with clear benefits 3 (moderate) – Some uncertainties, but risks can be managed with strategic planning 5 (high) – Significant risks, including high costs, security vulnerabilities or potential disruptionsBetween moderate and high High costs, uncertain timelines and future risk to encryptionModerate Integration challenges and high initial costs but moderate long-term riskBetween moderate and high Risk of delayed adoption leading to cybersecurity vulnerabilities Quantum Technologies: Key Strategies and Opportunities for ICT Leaders 20