Gartner's Tech Trends 2024: A Comprehensive Review for Australian Professional Services Companies
Gartner’s Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2024 beckon professional services companies in Australia to navigate the intricate landscape of AI-driven progress. As we dissect these trends, let’s not merely acknowledge them but scrutinise their nuances, exploring fresh perspectives to extract maximum value for the professional services sector Down Under.
Theme 1: Safeguarding Investments in the Tech Realm
Gartner urges businesses to tread cautiously, steering away from uncontrolled experimentation, and instead, adopt a measured, realistic, and forward-looking approach. The call to calculate Return on Investment (ROI) from the project’s inception resonates strongly, reminding professional services firms in Australia that strategic planning is key. The trends underpinning this theme, including AI Trust, Risk and Security Management (AI TRiSM), Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM), Industry Cloud Platforms, Sustainable Technology, and Democratised Generative AI, demand not just attention but proactive adaptation.
The projection that Generative AI will overhaul 70% of design and development efforts by 2026 raises the stakes. It’s not merely about protection but about staking a claim in the future of digital creation.
Theme 2: Rise of the Builders – Nurturing Creativity
Gartner introduces the concept of ‘builders,’ urging professional services firms to tap into the creative potential of diverse communities. Beyond just adopting technology, the emphasis lies on creating roadmaps that empower non-specialists to contribute meaningfully. The trends encapsulating this theme – Platform Engineering, AI-Augmented Development, Industry Cloud Platforms, Intelligent Applications, Sustainable Technology, and Democratised Generative AI – herald an era where intelligent app and solution builders redefine the industry.
The prediction that 80% of CIOs will link performance metrics to sustainability by 2027 is a call for alignment with environmental responsibility. For Australian professional services companies, this is not just about tech innovation but about contributing to a sustainable future.
Theme 3: Delivering Value – A Paramount Pursuit
Delivering value lies at the core of professional services, and Gartner’s trends echo this sentiment. Beyond meeting stakeholder expectations, the call is to be agile in responding to customer demands, especially from algorithm-based customers. The trends supporting this theme – Machine Customers, Augmented Connected Workforce, Intelligent Applications, Sustainable Technology, and Democratised Generative AI – outline a pathway for professional services companies to stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape.
As the influence of algorithm-based customers expands, it’s not just a technological evolution; it’s a paradigm shift in customer dynamics. The emphasis on sustainability as a performance metric signals a transition from optional eco-friendly practices to imperative corporate responsibility.
Strategic Integration for Synergistic Outcomes:
Gartner underlines the interconnectivity of these trends, emphasising that their true power lies in their amalgamation. For Australian professional services companies, this isn’t just about adopting technologies in isolation; it’s about strategic integration. By combining these trends judiciously, firms can not only fortify their resilience but also harness data value, attract and retain talent, meet ESG goals, foster growth, and expedite digital business.
Conclusion:
In the review of Gartner’s Tech Trends 2024, Australian professional services companies are presented with an opportunity to transcend the ordinary. Beyond the technicalities, it’s about approaching these trends with discernment, viewing them not as a checklist but as a strategic arsenal. By embracing a multi-faceted perspective, companies can not only align with their leadership goals but also emerge as trailblazers in the dynamic landscape of professional services in Australia. The future beckons and Gartner’s trends are the compass pointing toward sustained success.
Evolving Work Dynamics: Three Key Priorities for Future-Proofing the Workplace
Professional dynamics are constantly shifting, meaning the need to anticipate and adapt has never been more critical. Our latest article explores the three pivotal priorities shaping the professional landscape, from the embrace of hybrid models to the transformative power of generative AI. Discover the essence of future-proofing your workplace and stay ahead in the dynamic realm of work. Read on for a comprehensive insight into the leadership insights, future of work trends, and the strategic thinking required to thrive in the evolving professional landscape.
Embracing Hybrid Models: A Paradigm Shift in Work Dynamics
In the post-COVID professional landscape, embracing hybrid models emerges as a central focus. The conventional office-centric structure is transforming into a more flexible, adaptive model that seamlessly integrates both remote and in-person work. This paradigm shift ensures a harmonious blend where professionals can operate where they are most productive.
Expanding on this priority, organisations are increasingly recognising the significance of providing employees with the flexibility to choose their work environment. The emphasis is not only on accommodating diverse work styles but also on leveraging technology to foster collaboration and connectivity. Tools like video conferencing, project management software, and virtual collaboration platforms are becoming integral to maintaining a cohesive work culture despite physical distance.
As businesses navigate this shift, it becomes crucial to implement robust policies and technologies that support effective communication and collaboration in a hybrid setting. Moreover, fostering a culture of trust and accountability is essential to ensure that teams remain cohesive and engaged, regardless of their physical location.
The Impact of Generative AI: Reshaping Workflows and Possibilities
The advent of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT, Copilot, and AlphaCode represent a transformative force reshaping the professional landscape. The second critical priority revolves around comprehending and harnessing the impact of AI on workflows and possibilities. With generative AI expected to gain a ~30% share in the overall AI Market by 2025, integrating generative AI is pivotal for maintaining competitiveness in the evolving work environment.
Organisations need to invest in upskilling their workforce to navigate the integration of AI seamlessly. This involves providing training programs and resources to empower employees to work collaboratively with AI systems. Additionally, companies must carefully evaluate ethical considerations and ensure that the implementation of AI aligns with their values and principles.
As generative AI continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest advancements and possibilities is key. Embracing a culture of innovation and experimentation can help organisations stay at the forefront of technological developments, unlocking new avenues for efficiency and creativity.
Future-Proofing Your Workplace: A Strategic Imperative
With over 85% of organisations identifying increased adoption of new and frontier technologies as a trend most likely to drive transformation in their organisation, strategic thinking and long-term planning are vital components to ensure the resilience and sustainability of any professional environment. This encompasses not only embracing current trends but also anticipating and preparing for future shifts in the ever-changing work landscape.
To elaborate on this priority, organisations must foster a culture of adaptability and continuous learning. This involves encouraging employees to stay abreast of industry trends, acquire new skills, and embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Creating a flexible organisational structure that can quickly adapt to technological advancements and market changes is essential for long-term success.
In conclusion, embracing hybrid models, understanding the impact of generative AI, and adopting a strategic approach to future-proofing are the three crucial priorities that define the future of work. Stay ahead by navigating these changes with foresight and adaptability.
Enhancing Cybersecurity: Unveiling the Latest Australian Essential Eight Maturity Model Iteration
In the fast-evolving realm of cybersecurity, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) takes a proactive stance with significant updates to its Essential Eight Maturity Model. These enhancements aim to bolster the cybersecurity postures of organisations, reflecting the ever-changing threat landscape.
Patching Prioritisation: A Race Against Vulnerabilities
ASD’s commitment shines through in the intensified focus on patching critical vulnerabilities within a swift 48-hour timeframe. From Maturity Level One to Maturity Level Three, organisations are now mandated to address high-priority scenarios promptly. This includes a condensed patching timeframe for applications interacting with untrusted content from the internet, reinforcing defence against potential exploits.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Reinvented
Evolution in MFA requirements is pivotal, with Maturity Level One now demanding ‘something users have’ alongside ‘something users know.’ This shift addresses the vulnerabilities of relying solely on passwords, extending phishing-resistant MFA options even to lower maturity levels. Aligning with global standards, organisations are now obligated to adopt advanced authentication measures, fortifying defences against real-time phishing or social engineering attacks.
Data Governance and Administrative Privileges: A Systematic Approach
Recognising the critical role of data governance, the updated model emphasises consistency in processes for privileged access to data repositories. This spans Maturity Level One through Maturity Level Three, underscoring the need for a systematic approach to manage access to sensitive data. The model now explicitly demands the identification and limitation of privileged accounts for cloud services.
Application Control and Microsoft Office Macros: Adapting to Threats
Addressing the evolving techniques of malicious actors, application control changes focus on annual reviews of rulesets. The requirement for Microsoft Office macros shifts towards using more secure V3 digital signatures at Maturity Level Three, recognising the limited benefit of collecting and analysing macro execution events.
User Application Hardening and Regular Backups: Adapting to New Realities
With Internet Explorer 11 no longer supported, organisations are required to disable or uninstall it from operating systems at Maturity Level One and Maturity Level Two. The importance of considering business criticality when prioritising backups is highlighted across all maturity levels.
Cross-Cutting Measures and Language Consistency: Strengthening the Core
The model introduces cross-cutting measures like centralising event logs for detecting potential compromise signs. It emphasises language consistency from mapped controls within the Information Security Manual (ISM), ensuring alignment and facilitating automatic ingestion of ISM’s OSCAL baselines for the Essential Eight.
Conclusion: A Resilient Cybersecurity Framework
In conclusion, the recent updates to the Australian Essential Eight Maturity Model showcase a proactive response to evolving cybersecurity challenges. The refined focus on critical patching, strengthened MFA requirements, enhanced data governance, and other strategic enhancements collectively contribute to a more resilient and adaptive cybersecurity framework for organisations in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
Device Management: Simplifying IT Asset Management for Enhanced Efficiency
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, businesses are increasingly reliant on a multitude of devices to drive their operations. From computers and smartphones to printers and IoT devices, managing this diverse array of IT assets can be a daunting task. However, with the right device management strategies in place, organisations can streamline their IT asset management processes, leading to enhanced efficiency, improved security, and cost savings.
Understanding IT Asset Management
Before diving into the specifics of device management, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of IT asset management (ITAM). ITAM encompasses the processes and policies used to manage, track, and optimise an organisation’s IT assets throughout its lifecycle. This includes procurement, deployment, maintenance, and eventual disposal or retirement of devices.
The Significance of ITAM
Effective ITAM is more than just a routine task; it’s a strategic imperative for modern businesses. Here are some key reasons why it matters:
1. Cost Control
Proper ITAM helps organisations identify underutilised assets, allowing them to make informed decisions about whether to upgrade, repurpose, or retire devices. This control over expenditures leads to cost savings.
2. Security Enhancement
In an era where cyber threats are ever-present, knowing what devices are in your network is crucial. ITAM ensures that all devices are up to date with security patches and compliance standards, reducing the risk of data breaches.
3. Improved Productivity
Efficient ITAM means less downtime due to device failures or inefficiencies. When employees have access to well-maintained devices, their productivity soars.
Simplifying Device Management
Now that we have a foundation in ITAM, let’s explore how device management simplifies this process and boosts efficiency.
1. Centralised Control
One of the primary advantages of device management is centralised control. With a robust device management system in place, administrators can remotely monitor, configure, and update devices from a single dashboard. This eliminates the need for manual interventions and reduces the risk of errors.
2. Inventory Management
Device management systems maintain an up-to-date inventory of all IT assets. This real-time visibility ensures that organisations know exactly what devices they have, where they are located, and who is using them. It helps prevent loss, theft, or misplacement of valuable assets.
3. Automated Maintenance
Routine maintenance tasks like software updates, virus scans, and system optimisations can be automated through device management. This minimises disruptions to end-users and ensures that devices are always running at peak performance.
4. Policy Enforcement
Device management allows organisations to enforce IT policies uniformly across all devices. This ensures compliance with security standards, software licensing agreements, and data protection regulations.
5. Scalability
As businesses grow, so does their IT infrastructure. Device management solutions are scalable, making it easy to accommodate new devices and users without compromising efficiency.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective device management is essential for optimising IT asset management processes. By centralising control, automating maintenance, and enforcing policies, organisations can enhance efficiency, improve security, and reduce operational costs.
Simplifying BYOD Policies with Device Management Solutions
In today’s fast-paced and digitally connected world, the concept of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) has gained significant popularity among businesses. BYOD allows employees to use their personal devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, for work-related tasks.
While this approach offers flexibility and convenience, it also brings challenges for businesses when it comes to data security, policy management, and device compatibility. Fortunately, device management solutions have emerged as a valuable tool to simplify BYOD policies and address these concerns effectively.
Understanding BYOD Policies
BYOD policies outline the guidelines and rules that govern the use of personal devices in the workplace. These policies aim to strike a balance between employee productivity and corporate data security. However, managing and enforcing these policies can be complex and time-consuming without the right tools in place.
The Need for Device Management Solutions
Device management solutions play a crucial role in simplifying and streamlining BYOD policies. These solutions offer a range of features and functionalities that help businesses maintain control over their data while allowing employees to use their preferred devices. Let’s explore some key benefits of implementing device management solutions:
1. Enhanced Security
Data security is a top concern for businesses adopting a BYOD approach. Device management solutions provide robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information. These solutions enable businesses to enforce password policies, encrypt data, and remotely wipe devices in case of loss or theft. With advanced security features, companies can mitigate the risks associated with BYOD and ensure data protection.
2. Policy Enforcement
Implementing and enforcing BYOD policies can be challenging, especially when dealing with a diverse range of devices and operating systems. Device management solutions simplify this process by offering centralised policy management. Businesses can create and distribute policies across all devices, ensuring consistency and adherence to company regulations. In addition, these solutions enable remote configuration and updates, saving time and effort for IT departments.
3. Application Management
Controlling the applications installed on personal devices is crucial to maintain data security and prevent unauthorised access. Device management solutions enable businesses to manage and monitor the applications used by employees. By whitelisting approved apps and restricting the installation of potentially harmful or non-compliant applications, companies can enhance data protection and reduce the risk of security breaches.
4. Device Compatibility
Managing a diverse range of devices can be a major challenge for businesses embracing BYOD. Device management solutions address this concern by offering cross-platform compatibility. These solutions support various operating systems, including iOS, Android, and Windows, ensuring that employees can use their preferred devices without compatibility issues. By providing a seamless user experience across different platforms, companies can foster productivity and flexibility.
5. Remote Support and Troubleshooting
When employees encounter technical issues with their personal devices, it can hamper productivity and disrupt workflows. Device management solutions offer remote support and troubleshooting capabilities, enabling IT teams to diagnose and resolve problems quickly. By remotely accessing devices, IT personnel can provide assistance, install updates, and troubleshoot issues, minimising downtime and improving employee satisfaction.
Conclusion
As the BYOD trend continues to grow, businesses must effectively manage and secure personal devices used in the workplace. Device management solutions offer a comprehensive set of features that simplify BYOD policies and alleviate associated challenges. With enhanced security, centralised policy enforcement, application management, device compatibility, and remote support, these solutions provide a robust framework for businesses to embrace the benefits of BYOD while safeguarding their sensitive data.
Do you need help choosing a BYOD Device Management Framework? See how 9X5 can help.
Print Solutions for the Modern Workplace
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, organisations need to keep up with the latest technological advancements to stay efficient and competitive. One area that businesses often overlook is their print solutions. The modern workplace demands modern solutions, and traditional printing methods no longer cut it. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the latest trends in print solutions for the modern workplace, from cloud-based printing to managed print services. We’ll explore the benefits of print solutions, from cost savings to increased security and sustainability, and provide tips for choosing the right print solution for your business.
Cloud-based Printing Solutions
Cloud-based printing is a relatively new concept that has revolutionised the way businesses print. It involves connecting printers to the cloud, allowing employees to print from anywhere, anytime, and on any device. Cloud-based printing solutions offer several benefits, including increased flexibility and productivity, reduced costs, and improved security.
One of the main advantages of cloud-based printing is its flexibility. With cloud-based printing, employees can print from their smartphones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers. This means that they don’t have to be physically present in the office to print documents, making it an ideal solution for businesses with remote workers or multiple locations. Cloud-based printing also eliminates the need for print servers and software, reducing IT costs and freeing up IT resources.
Managed Print Services
Managed print services (MPS) is a comprehensive solution that outsources the management of a company’s printing devices to a third-party provider. MPS involves assessing the organisation’s print environment, identifying areas of inefficiency, and implementing solutions to reduce costs, improve productivity, and enhance security.
MPS offers several benefits, including cost savings, improved efficiency, and increased security. With MPS, businesses can reduce printing costs by up to 30%. This is achieved by optimising print processes, reducing waste, and using cost-efficient devices. MPS also helps businesses improve efficiency by automating workflows, streamlining document management, and reducing downtime.
In terms of security, MPS providers implement various measures to protect confidential information. This includes securing print networks, monitoring print activity, and implementing secure print release solutions. With MPS, businesses can ensure that their sensitive data is protected, reducing the risk of data breaches and compliance violations.
Choosing the Right Print Solution for Your Business
Choosing the right print solution for your business can be challenging, especially with so many options available. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
- Business Needs: Assess your organisation’s print requirements, including the number of devices, print volume, and user requirements.
- Budget: Consider the costs of different print solutions, including hardware, software, and ongoing maintenance.
- Security: Determine how important security is to your organisation and choose a print solution that meets your security requirements.
- Scalability: Choose a print solution that can grow with your business and adapt to changing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, print solutions play a critical role in the modern workplace, and businesses need to keep up with the latest trends to stay efficient and competitive. Cloud-based printing and managed print services offer several benefits, including increased flexibility, reduced costs, improved efficiency, and enhanced security. When choosing a print solution for your business, consider your organisation’s print requirements, budget, security needs, and scalability. With the right print solution in place, your business can streamline workflows, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
Networks 101: Understanding the Basics of Network Infrastructure
In today’s digital age, networks are the backbone of any business. They enable communication, collaboration, and access to critical resources. However, understanding the basics of network infrastructure can be overwhelming. In this article, we will provide an introduction to network infrastructure, discussing the different types of networks, the benefits of network infrastructure for businesses, and tips for designing and maintaining effective network systems.
Types of Networks
There are several types of networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and virtual private networks (VPNs). LANs are used to connect devices within a small geographic area, such as a home, office, or school. WANs, on the other hand, are used to connect devices across a large geographic area, such as multiple offices or cities. VPNs, which are becoming increasingly popular, enable secure connections between devices over the internet.
Benefits of Network Infrastructure
Network infrastructure provides several benefits for businesses, including increased efficiency, better collaboration, and improved access to resources. With a well-designed network, employees can easily communicate and share files, improving productivity and reducing downtime. Additionally, a network can provide access to critical resources, such as databases, applications, and printers, from anywhere in the world.
Tips for Designing and Maintaining Effective Network Systems
Designing and maintaining an effective network system can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help:
- Plan ahead: Before you start building your network, create a plan that outlines your business’s specific needs and goals. This will help you determine the type of network you need and the resources required.
- Choose the right equipment: Selecting the right networking equipment is critical for ensuring your network functions optimally. Make sure to choose equipment that is compatible with your business’s needs and budget.
- Maintain regular backups: Backing up your data is critical in the event of a system failure or security breach. Make sure to regularly back up your data to prevent data loss and ensure business continuity.
- Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of your network infrastructure can help prevent issues before they occur. Make sure to conduct regular system checks, software updates, and security scans to maintain network security and prevent downtime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, network infrastructure is critical for businesses of all sizes. Understanding the basics of network infrastructure can help you make informed decisions about the type of network you need and the resources required. With the tips provided in this article, you can design and maintain an effective network system that enables communication, collaboration, and access to critical resources.
vCIO: The Strategic Advantage Your Business Needs
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, businesses are facing increasing pressure to keep up with the latest trends and innovations. However, for many businesses, managing their IT infrastructure and implementing new technology can be a daunting task. This is where a virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO) comes in.
What is a vCIO?
A vCIO is an outsourced IT professional who provides strategic guidance and direction to businesses on technology adoption and management. Unlike a traditional CIO, who is a full-time employee of a company, a vCIO works on a contract basis and provides the same level of expertise and guidance without the high cost of a full-time employee.
A vCIO can help businesses in a number of ways, from assessing their current IT infrastructure to identifying areas for improvement and developing a roadmap for future technology investments.
The Benefits of Having a vCIO
Having a vCIO can provide a number of benefits for businesses, including:
- Cost savings: Hiring a vCIO is typically more cost-effective than hiring a full-time CIO, as businesses only pay for the services they need.
- Increased efficiency: A vCIO can help businesses streamline their IT operations, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.
- Improved security: A vCIO can help businesses identify and mitigate potential security risks, ensuring their IT systems are secure and protected.
- Strategic guidance: A vCIO can help businesses develop a technology roadmap that aligns with their overall business strategy, ensuring they are investing in technology that will support their growth and success.
Tips for Choosing the Right vCIO
When choosing a vCIO for your business, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for experience: Choose a vCIO who has experience in your industry and can provide specific examples of how they have helped businesses similar to yours.
- Evaluate communication skills: Communication is key when working with a vCIO, so choose someone who is responsive, proactive, and can explain complex technical concepts in a way that is easy to understand.
- Assess their approach: Choose a vCIO who takes a strategic, long-term approach to technology management, rather than someone who focuses solely on short-term fixes.
- Consider their availability: Make sure the vCIO you choose is available when you need them, whether it’s for routine maintenance or emergency support.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced business environment, having a vCIO can provide a strategic advantage for businesses of all sizes. By providing expertise and guidance on technology adoption and management, a vCIO can help businesses stay ahead of the curve and achieve their goals for growth and success. When choosing a vCIO, look for experience, communication skills, a strategic approach, and availability to ensure you get the most value from this important investment.