In an evolving landscape where technology increasingly dictates business success, executive leaders are urged to prioritise IT strategies as they look ahead to 2025. Tim Walker, Managing Director of Aura Technology, emphasised the shifting role of technology in contemporary business practices, highlighting that IT is not merely an operational concern anymore but a core component of competitiveness and efficiency.
Recent statistics from the Government’s 2024 Cyber Breaches report reveal significant vulnerabilities within the business sector, with 50% of businesses reporting a cyber incident over the prior year. In light of these figures, Walker posits that organisations must adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity, implementing comprehensive measures that extend beyond basic protections. He stated that leaders must not only invest in penetration testing and system defences but also focus on cultivating a "cyber-aware, cyber-ready culture" among their employees. Furthermore, developing a robust business continuity plan is critical to safeguarding operations against unforeseen cyber threats.
As businesses grapple with the necessity of embracing modern technology, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is described as "non-negotiable." The emergence of generative AI, epitomised by the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, significantly heightened awareness regarding the potential transformative effects of AI on various business functions. Walker warns that organisations hesitating to implement AI solutions may risk falling behind competitors who are leveraging advanced decision-making, analytics, and enhanced customer experience tools. He underscores the importance of collaboration between organisational leaders and IT advisers to integrate AI into strategic planning effectively.
Another pivotal consideration for businesses is the evolving shape of the workforce in an era where remote work remains prevalent. With data from the Office for National Statistics indicating that 28% of working-age adults in the UK work remotely, organisations face new challenges in securing their systems as employees gradually return to offices. Walker notes that many companies rapidly adapted IT to accommodate remote working, often leading to increased security vulnerabilities. He advocates for a shift towards a zero-trust technology approach, ensuring that security remains at the forefront as business models evolve.
Walker concludes that these considerations are only a fragment of the broader narrative surrounding the integration of IT within business strategies. The interrelationship between IT and business underscores the need for agile and forward-thinking strategies that will empower organisations to grow, innovate, and meet sustainability goals while remaining competitive in a rapidly changing environment. Access to expert advice will be pivotal for organisations navigating these complex IT imperatives as they prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Source: Noah Wire Services