IT executives’ top objectives are AI, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, according to the tenth annual CIO Report from global IT services company Logicalis US. The majority of firms (85%) are investing in AI technologies with revolutionary potential in 2024, despite economic uncertainties, according to the report, which polled over 1,000 CIOs worldwide.
While 87% of respondents have already created AI workstreams and a similar proportion are investing in AI capabilities despite the technology being in its very early stages, the survey indicated that most CIOs feel internal pressure to immediately grab new tech possibilities. Additionally, 86% of CIOs have started formal AI policies inside their organizations.
CIOs must constantly reevaluate and adjust objectives due to a variety of disruptive and difficult factors, in addition to AI. Implementing digital transformation is difficult for almost all CIOs (95%) and many of them cite a lack of digital vision and expertise as their main obstacle.
In 2024, strong technologies like quantum computing will drive rapidly changing cyber threats, which will be a major worry for CIOs, according to Logicalis’ study. Despite advancements in cybersecurity, 83% of companies experienced a cyberattack in 2023, which caused serious harm to their operations, including unplanned downtime, lost sales and consumer information, and penalties from the government. Consequently, just 43% of CIOs feel adequately prepared for another breach, indicating that confidence is still low.
“In 2024, we are witnessing the convergence of disruptive forces for the CIO, from AI to growing security threats,” stated Logicalis US Chief Executive Officer, Jon Groves. “CIOs are grappling with the task of promoting innovation and growth, while safeguarding their companies against an increasingly complicated digital threat environment. To thrive, future tech leaders must possess a wide array of abilities, ranging from visionary planning to strategic implementation, mastering the fine art of balance and choosing wisely where to concentrate their efforts.”
CIOs also highlighted the importance of a robust connectivity infrastructure in driving innovative growth. Internet of Things (IoT) and Private 5G were identified as the two major investment focus areas. 93% of those surveyed stated they were either investing in or planning to invest in Private 5G initiatives, for purposes like enhancing customer and employee experiences, connecting remote locations, and generating new revenue sources.
Significant conclusions regarding AI are as follows:
Notable results pertaining to cybersecurity are as follows:
Key findings on connectivity include the following:
Key findings on digital transformation include the following:
