In 2024, the landscape of information technology continues to evolve rapidly. Key IT business trends are driving significant transformations across all industries, changing operational strategies, customer relationship strategies, and technological infrastructures. We sat down with our senior leadership team to discuss which of these IT trends are most important in supporting growth for Australian and New Zealand businesses in 2024. 

Waruna Kirimetiyawa, CEO: AI as an employee value proposition 

Lancom CEO, Waruna, sees an opportunity for businesses to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools as a value proposition for prospective employees. “I think something that businesses need to consider is using AI tools, such as Copilot, to attract top talent. They can stage it as having an AI buddy to assist with repetitive tasks and gain back productivity.” An estimated four hours a week of productivity can be gained through the implementation of AI. Employees do not want to spend their time with busy work like creating power points, reading extensive spreadsheets, or creating reports, they want to apply their skills and knowledge to meaningful tasks. This means that the prospect of having an AI tool is a big draw for quality talent. Waruna also states, “Businesses need to shift their perspective on AI as not just a tool to use, but something that can actually improve the quality of their output.”  

Toni Southon, CFO: Strategic foresight and a data-driven renaissance after Covid 19 

Toni Southon thinks that ANZ businesses now have the opportunity to move from a reactive state to one with strategic foresight by leveraging data. “The pandemic forced organisations worldwide to adapt swiftly. Remote work, virtual collaboration, and digital transformation became the norm, but what we're witnessing now is more than just a reaction to external circumstances. There is a conscious evolution in how we approach work, moving from survival mode to strategic agility.”

COVID-19 also highlighted the importance of data. From tracking infection rates to predicting supply chain disruptions, data became our compass. And now, we're entering a data-driven renaissance.   AI and ML tools thrive within data-rich environments. It's not just about crunching numbers; it's about extracting wisdom. By asking the right questions, challenging assumptions, and seeking innovative solutions, AI empowers teams to stay ahead of the curve.  ANZ businesses recognise that data isn't a byproduct, it's a strategic asset.  Especially in the hands of their other major strategic asset – their people.

“As we reflect on the shifts brought about by the pandemic era, let's embrace the next frontier—the one where great people leverage good data and the power of technology as a catalyst for purposeful growth.” 

Darryl Grauman, Head of Revenue: Generative AI, Machine Learning and the security, ethics and risk around them 

Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) are advanced AI systems are transforming business by automating interactions and improving creative processes, as well as providing new decision-making and predictive analytics capabilities. These applications are also likely to become much more common due to AI-augmented development which is improving the software development by reducing the time and resources required for coding and debugging.  

However, as AI becomes more integrated into businesses, ensuring that these systems are trustworthy and secure is critical for responsible AI deployment. This includes strategies and systems for managing the ethical, risk, and security aspects of AI (AITRiSM). Beyond AI, Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) is critical for defending against emerging cyber threats and safeguarding all digital assets. CTEM takes a proactive approach to cybersecurity, involving continuous monitoring and management of cyber threats. It is essential for businesses to invest in these measures as they continue to grow and utilise AI tools.  

Other trends that Darryl suggests growing ANZ businesses investigate are: 

• Sustainable technology - developing eco-friendly technology solutions. It is about reducing the carbon footprint of technology operations while also aligning with global environmental sustainability efforts. 
• Platform Engineering - This is the process of streamlining the development and deployment of software applications for improving operational efficiency and scalability in fast-changing market environments. 
• Industry Cloud Platforms: These are cloud computing platforms designed to meet specific industry requirements. They provide specialised and efficient cloud services, resulting in more robust solutions across various business sectors. 
• Augmented Connected Workforce: This involves using augmented reality and other immersive technologies to improve collaboration and work processes. It is especially relevant for flexible and remote work arrangements, which will reshape the post-pandemic workforce. 

Ben Walton, Head of Operations: AI-driven security and collaboration enhancements 
 

In 2024, businesses can leverage AI-driven security and collaboration enhancements as critical components of their growth strategies. By integrating AI into security infrastructure, companies can mitigate cybersecurity risks more effectively, safeguarding sensitive data and preserving customer trust. AI algorithms are adept at identifying patterns and anomalies within vast datasets, enabling proactive threat detection and response in security systems. Through advanced machine learning techniques, AI can swiftly adapt to evolving cybersecurity threats, improving defences against malicious activities such as cyberattacks and data breaches.  

Furthermore, AI-powered collaboration tools empower teams to work more efficiently and creatively, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within the organization. This streamlined collaboration enables businesses to respond rapidly to market demands, capitalise on emerging trends, and forge strategic partnerships, thereby driving sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the ever-evolving business landscape of 2024. 

Priscila Bernardes, General Manager: Balancing the rise of AI with Human Interactions 

As the remote days of COVID-19 get truly and past us, businesses are becoming acutely aware of the importance of balancing technology with human interactions.
Brands adding personalised touches to their interactions are seeing positive response from customers and improved growth, while still leveraging technologies such as AI to free Sales and Account Management teams to spend their time understanding and delivering value for customers.

ANZ businesses will be tasked with strategically aligning their teams to ensure they are showing up authentically and taking a genuine investment in their customers business and needs. "With an increase demand for attention, businesses that are able to leverage technology to enable their teams to show up in a human way will win faster."