Is your business prepared to deliver and securely manage the rapidly evolving ICT landscape? As we approach 2024, it’s timely to explore the insights and predictions that will shape the future of ICT operations. In this blog, we delve into five key points that highlight the anticipated changes, discuss the origins of these insights, and provide actionable steps for businesses to take advantage of these predictions.

1. The Rise of AI-driven Automation
2. Increased Emphasis on Cybersecurity
3. Accelerated Adoption of Cloud Services
4. Growing Demand for Edge Computing Services
5. Further expansion and adoption of DevOps approach

The Rise of AI-driven Automation

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into ICT operations will revolutionise the industry. By 2024, AI will become a core component of service delivery, enabling advanced automation, predictive analytics, and proactive problem-solving. This shift will improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall delivery experience.

This highlights the rapid advancements in AI technology and its successful implementation in various sectors. For instance, companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have already leveraged AI-driven automation in their cloud platforms to optimise resource allocation, security, and performance. The proven benefits of AI in these contexts highlight its potential for driving similar transformation in your ICT operations delivery.

According to Gartner, by 2024, businesses that implement AI in their operations will witness a 30% reduction in IT infrastructure costs. Moreover, a report by Deloitte reveals that companies leveraging AI-driven automation in managed services achieve a 20% increase in customer satisfaction ratings.

To leverage this insight, businesses should look to invest in AI capabilities and expertise. They can embrace AI-powered monitoring tools that provide real-time insights, automate routine tasks, and identify potential issues before they impact operations. By proactively adopting AI-driven automation, businesses can streamline their ICT operations, improve service levels, and enhance customer satisfaction.

The future of ICT operations in 2024 promises ground-breaking transformations through AI-driven automation. By embracing this insight, businesses can gain a competitive edge, improve operational efficiency, and elevate customer experience.

Increased Emphasis on Cybersecurity

As technology continues to advance, so do the threats posed by cybercriminals. In 2024, there will be a heightened focus on cybersecurity within ICT operations. Businesses will further prioritise robust security measures, proactive threat detection, and swift incident response to safeguard their data and infrastructure from evolving cyber threats.

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime damages are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, underscoring the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. Additionally, a study by Accenture revealed that 68% of business leaders believe their cybersecurity risks are increasing.

This prediction arises from the escalating frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks across industries. High-profile data breaches and ransomware incidents have underscored the critical importance of cybersecurity. The rise of interconnected devices, cloud adoption, and remote work have further amplified the need for robust managed security services.

Businesses should invest in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and consider partnering with managed service providers (MSPs) that specialise in cybersecurity. Implementing multi-layered defences, conducting regular security assessments, and educating employees on best security practices are crucial steps. Organisations need to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity to stay ahead of potential threats in 2024 and beyond.

Accelerated Adoption of Cloud Services

In 2024, businesses will increasingly embrace cloud services to optimise their IT infrastructure and operations. The flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency offered by cloud solutions will drive organisations to migrate their applications and data to the cloud. ICT operations and external service providers will play a crucial role in assisting businesses with cloud adoption, migration, and ongoing management.

According to Gartner, by 2024, more than 45% of IT spending on infrastructure, software, and services will shift from traditional solutions to the cloud. Additionally, a study by Flexera revealed that 93% of enterprises have a multi-cloud strategy, highlighting the growing popularity of cloud solutions.

The ongoing shift towards cloud computing and the undeniable benefits it offers in 2024 is causing an accelerated adoption of cloud services. Organisations across industries have experienced the advantages of cloud solutions, such as reduced infrastructure costs, enhanced accessibility, and improved collaboration. As businesses seek to leverage these benefits, the demand for cloud managed services will continue to surge.

To capitalise on this prediction, businesses should assess their existing IT infrastructure and identify suitable applications for cloud migration. They should partner with experienced service providers who can guide them through the entire cloud adoption journey. This includes developing a comprehensive migration strategy, ensuring data security and compliance, and optimising cloud resources for maximum efficiency.

Growing Demand for Edge Computing Services

In 2024, the demand for edge computing services will witness significant growth. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the need for real-time data processing, businesses will rely on edge computing to minimise latency and enhance efficiency.

According to IDC, by 2024, over 50% of new enterprise IT infrastructure will be deployed at the edge rather than in traditional data centres. Additionally, Gartner predicts that by 2025, 75% of enterprise-generated data will be processed at the edge. These statistics highlight the growing significance of edge computing in the managed services landscape.

The increase reliance on IoT devices and the need to process data closer to the source is leading to the growing demand for edge computing services. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail require low-latency computing capabilities to enable real-time decision-making and reduce dependence on centralised data centres. Edge computing provides a decentralised approach, and its potential benefits have been showcased in various use cases and pilot projects.

To leverage this prediction, businesses should evaluate their data processing needs and identify areas where edge computing can provide significant advantages. They should partner with vendors and / or service providers who possess expertise in edge computing architecture, deployment, and management. By embracing edge computing services, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, improve customer experience, and gain a competitive edge.

Further adoption of DevOps practices

In 2024, there will be an increasing integration of DevOps principles and practices within ICT operations. Businesses will recognise the value of aligning development and operations teams to drive efficiency, agility, and continuous improvement. Organisations will adopt DevOps methodologies to streamline service delivery, enhance collaboration, and accelerate go to market innovation.

This prediction arises from the growing recognition of DevOps as a transformative approach to software development and operations. DevOps principles, such as automation, continuous integration, and continuous delivery, have proven to optimise workflows, reduce errors, and enhance overall productivity. As businesses seek to achieve faster time-to-market and deliver seamless customer experiences..

According to a survey conducted by Puppet, organisations that have successfully integrated DevOps practices experienced 63% fewer failures and recovered 168 times faster from incidents. Additionally, the State of DevOps report by DORA (DevOps Research and Assessment) found that elite performers in DevOps achieve 208 times more frequent deployments and have a 106 times faster mean time to recover from incidents. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits of adopting DevOps practices.

To take advantage of this prediction, businesses should embrace a DevOps mindset and culture. They should foster collaboration between development and operations teams, automate processes wherever possible, and adopt tools that facilitate seamless integration and continuous delivery. Partnering with managed service providers who have expertise in DevOps practices will further enable organisations to drive efficiency and innovation.

As we approach 2024, the future of ICT operations holds transformations that businesses should consider and evaluate. Oreta is doing the same and already adopting AI-driven automation, to enhance customer experience. Oreta’s expertise in ICT infrastructure, Cloud platforms and ICT operations positions them as trusted partner for businesses seeking to optimise their IT operations.