Yesterday saw the news that the world-famous Piccadilly Circus advertising lights will be switched off in January for around eight months – the longest period since the Second World War. Land Securities, who own the site, plan to replace the six current advertising boards with one Ultra-HD curved screen, which once completed, will be one of the largest of its kind in the world.

For many, the sight of such a bastion of the London landscape being switched off will no doubt be a shock. After all, since it was last unilluminated in 1949, the lights have only ever been turned off due to power cuts, special occasions or as a mark of respect for the funerals of Winston Churchill and Princess Diana.

But the decision to renovate the iconic signage serves to us all as a reminder that we need to continue moving with the times. Although seeing such a historical landmark fade into the background for a significant period of time will feel strange, the move is necessary so as to ensure that Piccadilly Circus can remain as prominent a tourist hotspot on the global stage as it is today. From Times Square in New York to Shibuya in Tokyo, there are many other vistas of Piccadilly Circus’ ilk throughout the world. So implementing the newest technology is a sure proof way of guaranteeing its continued reputation throughout the world.

Working as we do within the Technology sector, we at SQN understand that innovation and constant progress are the backbone of the industry. Today’s brand new breakthrough is next month’s old news. Keeping at the very forefront of such a fast-moving industry is the only way to ensure that you can stay at the head of pack.