For years, businesses have focused heavily on digital transformation to maintain a competitive edge. However, with technology advancing at breakneck speed, the influence of digital transformation has changed. Over the past five years, there have been massive shifts in how we work and the technologies we use, which means leading with a tech-focused strategy has become more of a baseline expectation than a strategic differentiator.
Now, IT leaders must turn their attention to new upcoming technologies that have the potential to drive true innovation and value to the bottom line. These new tools, when carefully aligned with organisational goals, hold the potential to achieve the next level of competitive advantage.
Leveraging new technologies, with caution
In this post-digital era, the connection between technology and business strategy has never been more apparent. The next wave of advancements will come from technologies that create new growth opportunities. However, adoption must be strategic and economically viable in order to successfully shift the dial.
The Logicalis 2024 CIO report highlights that CIOs are facing internal pressure to evaluate and implement emerging technologies, despite not always seeing a financial gain. For example, 89% of CIOs are actively seeking opportunities to incorporate the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their organisations, yet most (80%) have yet to see a meaningful return on investment.
In a time of global economic uncertainty, this gap between investment and impact is a critical concern. Failed technology investments can severely affect businesses so the advisory arm of the CIO role is even more vital.
The good news is that most CIOs now play an essential role in shaping business strategy, at a board level. Technology is no longer seen as a supporting function but as a core element of business success. But how can CIOs drive meaningful change?
1. Keeping pace with innovation
One of the most beneficial things a CIO can do to successfully evaluate and implement meaningful change is to an eye to industry. Technological advancement is accelerating at unprecedented speed, and the potential is vast. By monitoring early adopters, keeping on top of regulatory developments, and being mindful of security risks, CIOs can make calculated moves that drive tangible business gains while minimising risks.
2. Elevating integration
Crucially, CIOs must ensure that technology investments are aligned with the broader goals of the organisation. When tech initiatives are designed with strategic business outcomes in mind, they can evolve from novel ideas to valuable assets that fuel long-term success.
3. Letting the data lead
To accelerate innovation, CIOs need clear visibility across their entire IT landscape. Only by leveraging the data, can they make informed decisions to refine their chosen investments, deprioritise non-essential projects, and eliminate initiatives that no longer align with business goals.
Turning tech adoption into tangible business results
In an environment overflowing with new technological possibilities, the ability to innovate and rapidly adopt emerging technologies is no longer optional—it is essential for survival. To stay ahead, businesses must not just embrace technology but harness it as a powerful driver of strategic growth and competitive advantage in today’s volatile landscape.
CIOs stand at the forefront of this transformation. Their unique position at the intersection of technology and business strategy allows them to steer their organisations toward high-impact technological investments that deliver measurable value.
Visionary CIOs, who can not only adapt but lead with foresight and agility, will define the next generation of industry leaders, shaping the future of business in this time of relentless digital evolution.
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