PwC: 3 priorities for IT directors in 2025

The combination of progress in generative AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and semiconductors opens up opportunities for a radical rethink of business models and the creation of new value. Generative AI enables content creation and the automation of complex processes, while IoT helps collect data quickly and improve efficiency — both in smart homes and in manufacturing. The rapid development of semiconductors strengthens both of these trends.

Integrating new technologies helps businesses launch new initiatives and optimize operations. For example, companies in the sports industry use smart stadiums to personalize the fan experience, while manufacturers are adopting augmented reality and robotics. According to a PwC Pulse survey conducted in June 2024, 85% of top executives in the technology, media, and telecom sectors can already launch and scale business models using these technologies, and 76% plan to develop these initiatives with the help of generative AI.

The potential of these solutions is enormous, but their implementation involves numerous challenges — this is where CIOs and IT leaders can play a strategic role by helping to rethink business models, operational processes, and customer interactions. In an environment of changing competition and customer expectations, those who can rapidly implement technologies, such as AI agents, as soon as they become commercially available, will win.

Accelerate the search for talent

Talent shortages are not a new problem for CIOs, but they are set to worsen in the near future. In a recent CEO survey by PwC, most executives admitted that they are actively considering the implementation of new technologies. If 40–60% of companies begin to adopt these solutions, there simply will not be enough specialists.

The CIO State of the CIO 2025 survey showed that 54% of IT directors are already experiencing staff shortages and are forced to divert attention from strategic tasks. The most critical shortages are in artificial intelligence and machine learning — 38%, cybersecurity — 33%, and data analytics — 21%. Specialists in cloud solutions and ERP systems will become even more in demand, and the demand for security experts will surge sharply. Companies that delay implementation risk being unable to find the necessary personnel at all.

Help the business cope with complexity

Besides talent shortages, CIOs are becoming key figures in managing complex technology projects. Many companies rushed to implement generative AI but encountered implementation difficulties. According to PwC Pulse, 61% of companies in the technology sector have implemented generative AI in at least several areas, and 84% are increasing their cloud budgets specifically due to AI projects. Meanwhile, 45% expect AI to save more money in the coming months, especially with the growing number of AI agents.

In practice, results often fall short of expectations. Many pilot projects were launched quickly but were not prepared to address regulatory issues, data security, and legal constraints. Questions arise regarding data security, legal restrictions across countries and technologies, and the scalability of projects. If a pilot project costing $1 million saves 5–15% of working time, it is worth considering how scalable this solution is and how many similar projects will be required. CIOs are beginning to consider more targeted implementations, limiting themselves to specific tasks and departments rather than mass licensing.

Get data in order

Proper data management is not only about compliance but also the foundation for monetization. According to the CIO State of the CIO 2025 survey, 38% of companies chose data monetization as a key investment area, and 46% of executives consider this a serious challenge. Access to data has become a barrier to entering many markets — from media and telecom to finance.

Companies must organize their data to increase attractiveness for M&A deals, joint projects, and licensing agreements. CIOs will play one of the leading roles in this process. According to PwC, about 80% of companies have already modernized or plan to modernize their data management in the coming year to leverage the opportunities of generative AI. To do this, new storage, management, and analytics systems are being implemented, enabling informed decision-making and improving business results. Data must be valuable and secure for partners, and CIOs must clearly understand how to manage them and with whom to collaborate.

Source: cio.com