According to Gartner's latest forecast, worldwide IT spending is currently set to increase by 7.5%, reaching an impressive $5.26 trillion. While this is slightly down from the previous projection of 8%, it still highlights the critical role that technology investments will play in shaping the future of business. For companies across Australia and New Zealand, this rise in IT spending offers both opportunities and challenges, especially when it comes to managing device lifecycles and ensuring strong security.
With IT budgets on the rise, it’s important to understand how this will impact various sectors. Gartner’s forecast shows a significant growth in spending on data centre systems and software, driven largely by the increasing demands of Generative AI (GenAI) technologies. However, this also means that businesses need to be prepared to manage the complexities that come with these advancements, particularly in device lifecycle management and security.
As businesses ramp up their IT spending, it’s essential to have a solid plan in place for managing device lifecycles. Gartner predicts a 5.4% growth in device spending for 2024, highlighting the need for efficient management of devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Without a clear strategy for procurement, deployment, maintenance, and retirement, businesses could face unnecessary costs and potential security risks.
With more devices in play, security becomes even more critical. As Gartner’s forecast indicates, ensuring robust security measures remains a top priority, especially with the complexities introduced by GenAI. To stay ahead of cyber threats, businesses need to implement strong security protocols across all endpoints, keep software regularly updated, and continuously monitor for vulnerabilities.
Given the expected increase in IT spending, businesses must plan their IT strategies carefully to ensure they’re getting the most out of their investments. One effective approach is to consider outsourcing IT services, particularly in areas like device lifecycle management and security.
For instance, outsourcing Managed Mobility Services (MMS) and Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) can significantly reduce the workload on internal IT teams, freeing them up to focus on more strategic initiatives. Similarly, outsourcing Telecom Expense Management (TEM) can help businesses avoid overspending and ensure that their IT budget is used wisely.
Here at VoicePlus, we understand the challenges that come with managing IT investments, especially as spending continues to grow. Our Atrium Integrated Managed Mobility and Endpoint Services Platform is designed to help businesses streamline their device management processes, optimise telecom expenses, and enhance security.
Here’s how we can make a difference for your business:
As we continue towards 2024 and beyond, making strategic IT investments will certainly remain key to staying competitive. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, offering the expertise and tools needed to navigate the complexities of IT management. Connect with us today, and let us help you maximise your IT spending and ensure your business thrives in today’s fast-paced digital world.