As a consequence vendors will need to adapt to this change and provide the flexibility to support new ways of working and different non-standardised environments. Over three quarters of respondents (76 percent) see the relationship with service providers as a partnership, not just a supplier relationship. Furthermore, 67 percent expect them to support the business by driving innovation. The constantly changing role of the CIO will play a significant role in managing this change across the IT organisation, with 67 percent of respondents stating the CIO role will need to evolve in order to help address technology deficits.
Response
The response to the tech deficit has to be more about the way in which investments are made and the relationships which organisations forge with their suppliers and ecosystems. Spend is determined by priorities and budget. Limited budgets suggest CAPEX investments are no longer seen as attractive or sustainable and flexible alternatives with lower cost implications which can also be implemented quickly are now the preferred method of responding to changing business needs.
Own Less. Embrace the Cloud.
A move towards a service based delivery model will help businesses become more responsive via IT infrastructure that is capable of adapting to change. Business outcomes change so there is a need for an underlying technology that can also change.
Cloud solutions for big data, collaboration and customer relationship management can be a real competitive advantage and this intelligent technology reduces the reliance on rigid hardware- new solutions like remote working and file sharing are enabled by cloud computing.
Service based delivery in this new digital economy supports customers expecting quick responses and Cloud services help create a more agile and collaborative workforce.
Be simple. Be flexible.
Businesses need flexibility and simplicity. This means flexible commercials along with technology that makes their lives easier. More flexibility should correspond to a reduction in complexity. Businesses everywhere are demanding simplicity: services that are easy to manage and make automation a priority. Simpler, more automated systems and processes allow them to get back to what they do best; ultimately, this is all they really want.
Right infrastructure. Right partner.
Good underlying infrastructure meets daily operational requirements while creating a platform for continuous IT. Strong infrastructure services can support the delivery of services that are flexible enough to respond to demand and market trends.
Acquiring a partner who understands the inherent complexity and intricate relationships across network and infrastructure can make a significant difference. The right partner is not someone who sells things but one willing to create a deep relationship based on shared ideas, business outcomes and mutual understanding. Partners with presence in multiple countries and regions can also bring local expertise to the table and provide crucial guidance on country-specific regulatory and compliance issues.
The Future
The tech deficit won't go away. More than eight in 10 IT decision makers believe their infrastructure foundations requires evolution over the next two years to keep up with business demands. A measured response is required. One which best delivers on business outcomes and results in an underlying infrastructure which is simplified, flexible and responsive. Those who act now by making strong decisions around infrastructure solutions which are aligned to business outcomes will avoid the negative impact of the deficit. They will address customer requirements and be equipped to support new business models and approaches as part of the digital economy.
- Steve Hughes is the leading Cloud and Virtualisation Specialist for Colt Enterprise Services.
