Industry Voice: The true impact of AI on the technology ecosystem: Insights from TD SYNNEX’s Third Global Annual Direction of Technology Report

The Third Global Annual Direction of Technology Ecosystem Report from TD SYNNEX explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the technology sector. As AI continues to drive innovation, the report highlights how partners are responding to the rising demand for AI solutions and how businesses are integrating AI to stay competitive.

Driving innovation: The increase of AI in technology

AI is proving to be a crucial driver of technological advancement. Nearly half of the surveyed partners (44%) intend to introduce AI solutions within the next two years, which marks an impressive 214% increase since 2022. To capitalise on AI's potential, partners are prioritising essential solutions such as security, alongside foundational technologies like cloud services and storage, which are vital for the development of generative AI (GenAI) and various AI services. Around half (52%) of partners are set to offer GenAI in the coming year, and plan to launch AI services (48%), reflecting the swift expansion of AI adoption.

Customers fuelling AI demand

AI's ability to enhance productivity and optimise operations is driving a significant increase in demand for innovative solutions. In 2024, 65% of partners reported receiving inquiries for AI proofs of concept, signalling strong interest from businesses eager to explore the advantages of AI. This surge in demand highlights AI's growing relevance, with many partners acknowledging its critical role in their business strategies.

As AI adoption accelerates, partners are focusing on essential technologies like security, hybrid cloud, and networking. While AI has become the second-most desired solution for the next two years, security remains the top priority for 49% of partners, illustrating the need for a balanced approach that integrates innovation with dependability.

GenAI and AI services leading the way

As demand for AI continues to escalate, partners are concentrating on specific AI technologies. Over half (52%) plan to offer GenAI within the next year, applying it to essential areas such as marketing, IT, and product development. Additionally, 48% of partners are expected to provide AI services that assist clients in developing, refining, and integrating AI models into their existing systems. Beyond these primary services, more than a third of partners are preparing to offer AI-enabled servers, devices (including AI-powered PCs), AI training, and AI storage solutions, indicating a diverse range of options being developed. AI-enabled devices, in particular, are set to revolutionise workplaces by enhancing productivity and creativity while boosting security and energy efficiency.

AI as a catalyst for business expansion

The success of AI-related deals demonstrates the realisation of AI's potential. Over the past year, 77% of tech partners successfully closed AI deals. While 23% of partners reported no AI deals in 2024, this figure is projected to decline to just 6% over the next year as AI becomes more embedded in business operations. Partners that fail to embrace AI risk falling behind.

AI as a key driver of business success

As AI continues to advance, it is transforming the technology landscape and offering substantial growth opportunities. With rapid adoption of AI by both partners and customers, solutions like GenAI and AI services are becoming critical components of business strategies. In this fast-paced environment, staying ahead with innovative AI offerings will be essential for future success.

Download TD SYNNEX’s Global Direction of Technology report to discover more about the latest trends and strategies in the tech industry. Click the link to get your copy now: TD SYNNEX.

1,006 B2B channel partners from over 60 countries — North America (NA), Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ).

This article is sponsored by TD SYNNEX.