Quantum Computing Roadmap 2024 — What Matters for CIOs
Published on May 22, 2024
Updated on June 30, 2024
2 min read
The state of quantum in 2024
Microsoft announced a credible path toward a reliable qubit at Build 2024, backed by hardware breakthroughs and Azure Quantum Elements for chemistry workloads. CIOs need to understand two timelines: near-term quantum-inspired optimization and mid-term fault-tolerant quantum.
Near-term wins
Azure Quantum Elements combines classical HPC, quantum-inspired algorithms, and AI agents to accelerate materials discovery.
Resource Estimator tooling helps quantify how many physical qubits a scenario would require, guiding investment decisions.
Partnerships with Quantinuum, Rigetti, and IonQ keep hardware diversity accessible via Azure.
Preparing your organization
Skills: upskill data scientists in Q#, Python SDKs, and domain-specific quantum libraries.
Infrastructure: integrate Azure Quantum workspaces with existing Azure policies and monitoring.
Use cases: focus on optimization (routing, portfolio balancing) and chemistry for now.
Security implications
Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is not optional. Begin inventorying cryptographic assets, test PQC algorithms (NIST finalists) in pilot networks, and monitor Microsoft’s Windows/Office PQC roadmaps.
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Decision checklist
Assign a single accountable executive for quantum exploration.
Define a yearly budget for proofs-of-concept tied to business KPIs.
Participate in industry consortia (e.g., QED-C) to stay ahead of interoperability standards.
Finish with a link to a quantum strategy workshop or maturity assessment.
