Cyber leads in Softcat survey on 2024 IT priorities

Devices and end-user computing, people concerns and ESG priorities all made the list

Softcat has outlined the key technology priorities set to shape business strategies over the next 12 months in its annual survey.

The research draws insights from a pool of over 4,000 customers of the reseller across 2,900 organisations in the UK and Ireland, spanning 27 industries in the public and private sector.

For the second consecutive year, cyber-security has emerged as the dominant focus, with 56 per cent of respondents pinpointing it as their top priority.

Kieron Newsham, Softcat's chief technologist for cyber-security, underscores the critical role of cyber resilience in the face of relentless technological advancement and evolving threats.

He advocates for organisations to not only recognise the importance of cyber security but to also embrace and leverage new technologies for recovery and normalisation after cyber incidents.

Following closely, digital workspace claims the spotlight as the second most prioritised area.

Over a third of organisations (39 per cent) emphasise devices and end user computing' for the upcoming year.

This shift recognises the significance of optimising digital workspaces, using generative AI to enhance productivity, security, and sustainability in the ever-changing digital landscape.

Data secures the third spot on the priority list, with 28 per cent of customers earmarking it for attention over the next 12 months.

Networking and connectivity (25 per cent) and datacentre and private cloud (18 per cent) round out the top technology investment areas.

Organisations have also voiced their anticipated challenges for the next year, with 48 per cent expressing concerns about people-related issues.

Commercial risk (40 per cent), processes (31 per cent), technology experience (30 per cent), and procurement (26 per cent) round out the list of expected challenges, showcasing a landscape where organisations must adapt and innovate to stay ahead.

In a turbulent economy, as ESG priorities have, in some organisations, taken a back seat, the survey asked respondents to separately rank their priorities in this area.

People and culture led the way at 70 per cent, closely followed by sustainability (68 per cent) and diversity and inclusion (55 per cent).

Notably, sustainability has seen a significant uptick, with more than three times the number of respondents recognising it as a top priority compared to 2022 (19 per cent in 2022 to 68 per cent in 2023).

"As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology, it is essential that we remain vigilant and adaptable. The past year has seen global unrest, but it has also presented us with countless technological opportunities for growth and innovation, commented Richard Wyn Griffith, chief commercial Office at Softcat.

By taking a measured and strategic approach, we can effectively manage the risks associated with emerging technology, while also seizing the opportunities that it presents. It is critical that we remain proactive in our efforts to safeguard against cyber threats, integrate AI into our operations, and build digital resilience.