Build a first-mover advantage in quantum computing with Black Opal’s new applications skills

Quantum computing is shifting from exploratory research to real-world applications. 

A growing number of successful real-world case studies – like Q-CTRL’s exploration of real train scheduling for London Bridge Station with UK Network Rail – have brought forward timelines for commercial relevance, motivating some quantum hardware vendors to claim that we will see quantum advantage by the end of 2026!

With these fast-moving industry dynamics and so much at stake, end-users now have a choice to either be a part of the early adopter group capturing 90% of the value (according to BCG), or just another company left behind as a new technology emerges. Upskilling right now is critical!

To support your journey to quantum readiness, today Black Opal launches its new Quantum Applications modules to help learners explore how this revolutionary technology will change industries and create new opportunities. The Quantum Applications modules provide an approachable way to:

• Understand the types of business opportunities quantum computers can unlock
• Learn how to apply quantum computing in relevant domains
• Gain a realistic view of the benefits achievable now and in the near future

Logistics: first in our new applications series focusing on commercial relevance

The Logistics skill is the first module to launch in our new applications series. It focuses on transport routing to demonstrate how hybrid quantum-classical algorithms can deliver commercially relevant solutions today. 

The Logistics application module comprises three concise topics. The skill begins by breaking down an example of a routing problem, then shows how the problem can be mapped to a quantum computer to find the best route option in the second topic. The third topic, “Quantum utility”, illustrates how quantum devices can be put to commercial use today for this problem class, how the approach can be generalized for other types of optimization problems in logistics, transportation, and elsewhere, and illustrates what will become possible as we approach quantum advantage.

Designed as a beginner-level module suitable for those new to quantum computing, Black Opal’s new Logistics skill is the most approachable, practical, business-focused explanation of quantum applications available. It’s perfect for domain experts seeking understanding of how quantum computing will help them, business leaders wanting to understand and plan for impact and disruption, and the quantum curious alike.

Charting the path to advantage with Black Opal

The new Logistics skill is just the first in this new series of skills and features to help you prepare for the arrival of quantum advantage. 

In Black Opal, the new Applications section is separated from existing fundamental skills not only to showcase the relevance of these applications, but also to help learners envision their pathway from learning the basics to applying their skills in the real world. 

Learners can approach this journey any way that suits them best: gaining high-level context before delving into mastering the fundamentals, or starting with the essential foundations and then adding real-world use cases. 

As always with Black Opal, we’ve built the flexibility so you and your teams can learn in the way that’s best for you. 

The future of quantum applications

Next to be released in the Applications section will be Simulation, where you will learn how the innate ability of quantum computers to simulate quantum systems can provide commercially useful benefits in drug discovery, solar cell design, battery efficiency, and more. So stay tuned!

As we move towards quantum advantage, Black Opal will continue to grow with new content to equip you and your teams with the practical knowledge to harness real-world value from quantum computers. 

We also want to hear from you to inform our content roadmap. Which upcoming application areas matter most to you? Let us know so you can help shape Black Opal’s future, get early access to new skills, and be the first to hear about new releases.

Start preparing for quantum advantage today

The first quantum applications skill, Logistics, is available to all Black Opal Enterprise and Education customers today. Watch our recent webinar to learn more about quantum computing applications and see elements of Applications skill in action!

‍Contact us to enquire about our enterprise and educational access to Black Opal, or sign up for free to try Black Opal for yourself.