Prospects for the development of the IT industry in 2024

1. The AI hype is fading, but workflows continue to evolve

The initial hype around generative AI will likely subside in 2024 for several reasons. Most companies will need to take a step back to establish the necessary prerequisites for modern artificial intelligence operations, but this does not mean that research and pilot programs will come to a complete halt. Alongside new autonomous products, a wide range of business applications will begin to incorporate AI as a feature.

2. Technology providers are using AI to run their businesses more efficiently

Even if distributors do not plan to sell AI solutions, they can still increase profitability by integrating AI into their internal processes.

Automation has always been important for MSPs, and modern AI will help accelerate and improve these processes. At the same time, mass job cuts are not inevitable.

3. Governance becomes the center of cybersecurity and data operations

Demand for governance is growing to ensure compliance with best practices during implementation. Special attention to governance in dynamic areas such as cybersecurity and data will help align technological initiatives with organizational goals.

4. Cybersecurity beyond the basics is becoming a mandatory skill for the channel

Many organizations are experiencing a shortage of workers and facing difficulties in finding candidates with the cybersecurity skills their organizations need. Competition for talent is fierce, as companies in the IT channel are also forced to compete for cybersecurity experts in the general labor market.

5. Cloud architecture accelerates solution complexity

Most new technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and various iterations of AI, are most often part of comprehensive solutions rather than standalone products. When the focus is on building these complex systems, it is easy to overlook the importance of foundational computing infrastructure.

6. IT distributors are strengthening their role as B2B online marketplaces

IT distributors, which have long occupied an intermediary position in the hardware supply chain, have adapted their business models to the wave of cloud computing. These companies leverage their extensive resources, scale, and status as technology aggregators to create marketplaces that serve channel companies and suppliers in various ways. The popularity of these digital platforms is growing among MSPs, solution providers, and others who build complex multi-vendor cloud offerings.

7. Marketing becomes a key factor of differentiation in IT business

Companies are allocating more budgets and resources to marketing activities, hiring in-house marketers, and generally paying more attention to the importance of branding. Social media, influencer impact, content marketing, subscription models, reduced dependence on suppliers and products as brands, and the development of proprietary intellectual property all contribute to this awakening.

8. Productivity is the driving force of digital transformation

Ultimately, digital transformation efforts are aimed at creating a more productive workforce. Alongside the adoption of new technologies, it is also necessary to develop a strategy for skill development, including upskilling existing employees or hiring new ones.

9. Organizations are implementing transparent, skills-based career growth

Attracting an employee is only the first step. Retaining employees also poses a significant challenge in the face of fierce competition in the labor market. Therefore, the next natural step for companies is to expand the skills-based approach from hiring to career development. Implementing transparent, skills-based career growth requires two main components.

First, it is necessary to define what skills and responsibilities are required for each position and level. Second, a management culture must be established that is oriented toward consistent and open communication.

10. Companies are seeking employees and customers from all age groups

These trends in the technology industry will evolve over the next 12 months, adding new chapters to the history of technological evolution. The best way to predict the future is to create it, and the companies that will thrive in the coming years will be those that use technology to create new opportunities.