In his position as Chief Technical Officer at Trifork GmbH, a leading supplier of high-quality custom-built applications and end-to-end software solutions, Preben Thorø is at the forefront of technological developments. In the Foreword, he talks about quantum computing as a scientific breakthrough and points out its tremendous impact on businesses, industries, and society in general.

Quantum computing is an emerging technology. It is expected to have a broad range of applications that have yet to be discovered. This chapter covers the main factors that led to the first innovations in this sector, explains why it is important for companies to become "quantum ready", and discusses the main stages of development this technology must undergo.

Quantum computing is part of the broader area of quantum technologies. This chapter presents an overview of the main quantum-related disciplines and their real-life applications. It briefly describes the fields of quantum sensing and metrology, quantum communication, and quantum theory, identifying the current level of development and the potential for growth of each of these areas.

In order to assess the potential of quantum computing fairly, a basic understanding of this technology's main building blocks is required. This chapter brings to the forefront the differences between classical and quantum devices, the challenges that this technology faces, and the ultimate goal that researchers and investors strive to reach. Other topics addressed include the types of quantum computing methods; technologies used to store information; software and algorithms; and benchmark metrics.

The idea of building a quantum computer began to take shape in 1980. This chapter depicts the main advancements that have been achieved over the years. It examines how this technology evolved from the phase of generating ideas to the current "perfecting and scale-up" stage.

Once quantum computing technology becomes mature, it has the potential to impact all major industries. This chapter offers an overview of the most significant industry sectors where quantum computing can make a notable difference. Companies in areas such as data security, chemistry, manufacturing and logistics, law, pharma and medicine, automotive and transportation, and defense are already experimenting with quantum technologies and preparing to harness their potential.

In the last decade, the inflow of funds to quantum-related research and development has increased constantly. Nations around the globe are racing to achieve a competitive advantage by employing quantum technologies. This chapter presents the level of governmental funds expended on quantum-related research and development, as well as the funds invested by companies, venture capital, and other private entities. It discusses regional differences and notable developments throughout the years.

The quantum ecosystem is continuously growing, powered by a constant infusion of funds and interest from both academia and the business side. This chapter presents the major types of products and services offered by companies in the quantum field, the evolution of the sector in terms of the number of start-ups, the regional distribution of companies, the established players, and promising emerging companies. Moreover, the global distribution of universities and research centers is presented along with an overview of the patents registered in the last couple of years.

The latest developments in the quantum field and its promised potential have generated considerable hype around this industry and its future applications. This chapter introduces a balanced view by presenting both sides of the debate, from the issues raised by quantum skeptics to the vision promulgated by quantum enthusiasts.

Quantum computing is a nascent industry; therefore, its future impact on the environment and society must be taken into consideration. This chapter addresses aspects related to energy consumption, workforce, legislative implications, and governmental regulations. It also points out why and how companies in different industries can already start exploring quantum technologies and familiarize themselves with them.

This chapter brings to the forefront the main ideas and insights developed throughout the entire report. Besides a detailed list of significant technological advancements needed for the technology to fulfill its promise, this section offers practical insight on different ways to become part of this emerging industry and potential ways to shape it.

Preben Thorø concludes the report by reaffirming his confidence in this technology and the advancements that it will bring in the future. The topics addressed so far are stepping stones towards future insight. Subsequent updates will dive into more specific quantum-related trends and complement the existing information with more details and up-to-date sector-specific developments.

One of the most noticeable things when it comes to quantum computing is the fast-paced development and the rapidity with which significant changes happen in terms of technology, applications, and investments. The first update of the Quantum Computing Report presents the main developments in the quantum computing field in the first quarter of 2021 and dives deeper into exploring the quantum sensing field, focusing on the applications of this technology and the industry ecosystem.