Benjamin Franklin cautioned, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” That quote merits some reflection as we consider the fast-approaching new year.
You must carefully chart a course for your company in 2024 to avoid losing your way as you navigate the complex and rapidly changing technological landscape. If you still need to adjust your map for your company’s IT operations next year, now is the time to sit down and seriously consider your direction in terms of tech.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to long-term tech planning, you should account for the following key elements as you finalize your 2024 IT roadmap.
1. Your organizational goals.
Your IT plan should support your overarching corporate goals for the upcoming year and beyond. For instance, if you want to enhance customer experiences in 2024, implementing AI tools that create new self-service options might be a crucial part of your technology strategy.
2. Plans to adopt new technology.
You need to stay up-to-speed on emerging technologies to keep up with the competition and changing consumer standards. For example, you might want to consider your AI implementation strategy. The majority (72 percent) of CEOs in the U.S. say generative AI is a top investment priority, even in the face of economic uncertainty, according to the KPMG 2023 U.S. CEO Outlook.
Other emerging technologies on business leaders’ radar for 2024 include but are not limited to 5G, IT automation, Internet of Things (IoT), gigabit Wi-Fi networking, and virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), according to the 2024 State of IT report from Spiceworks.
3. The IT talent shortage.
A combination of low unemployment rates, increased remote work, and more competition for employees has fueled a shortage of skilled IT workers, Spiceworks reports. Sixty-three percent of senior tech leaders say finding IT talent is currently a challenge, up from 58 percent last year. To address recruiting difficulties, consider working with a managed IT service provider that offers access to high-level tech expertise without the hassle and expense of hiring internally.
4. Rapidly evolving security threats.
While new tech (e.g., generative AI) has created new business opportunities, it’s also fueling novel cybersecurity threats like advanced phishing campaigns. Subsequently, email cyberattacks skyrocketed by nearly 500 percent in the first half of 2023, according to Acronis.
As you refine your 2024 IT roadmap, consider how to keep your security strategy current. Working with a managed cybersecurity service provider can help you stay ahead of cybercriminals and avoid costly incidents.
5. The high likelihood of regret after buying new tech.
It’s common for companies to almost immediately rue tech purchasing decisions: 73 percent of buyers report high levels of regret before even implementing the new products, according to Gartner. Conflicting objectives among purchasing committees are the top cause of lamentable decisions, factoring into nearly 90 percent of high-regret scenarios.
Working with third-party technology advisors can help you avoid choosing the wrong solutions. Our team can leverage 20+ years of IT industry experience, access to niche offerings, objective comparison matrices, and a proven process to resolve disagreements to ensure the process goes smoothly and allow you to advance with confidence.
Ultimately, the time to act is now if you want to feel confident about your tech strategy in 2024. Get your IT on track for the new year by calling 877-599-3999 or emailing sales@stratospherenetworks.com.
