What's keeping IT execs up at night as we head into 2017?
Concerns about security, natch. And IoT. And artificial intelligence.
Those are some of the tidbits from Computerworld's exclusive Tech Forecast 2017 special report, which uncovered the top 10 trends that are top-of-mind for senior IT pros. (There's also data on hiring and budgeting that could signal a rocky road ahead for rank-and-file IT employees. )
As Senior Features Editor Tracy Mayor explains, the top five things to double-down on now include security, analytics, Xaas, mobile apps and virtualization, while the top five disruptors to track in 2017 are Internet of Things/telematics, self-service IT, mobile payments, artificial intelligence and next-generation Wi-Fi.
Mayor and IDGE Chief Content Officer John Gallant join Executive News Editor Ken Mingis to debate the survey results and discuss what they mean for IT. Exhibit A: Security is the No. 1 priority for execs, and IoT/Telematics is the No. 1 most disruptive technology. But in light of the Mirai DDoS attack that was perpetrated via 100,000 devices, are those two trends at odds?
Mayor urges caution in embracing IoT, while Gallant argues that IT managers who walk away from its potential could thwart their companies' digital transformation.
One other finding: Some 22% of IT managers see self-service IT as a disruptive force within three to five years. Good news for IT employees or the beginning of an ominous trend? We discuss, you decide -- by drawing your own conclusions from the data.
A PDF with complete survey results is available as a free download. And as the Tech Forecast 2017 package rolls out in the coming days and weeks, there's much more to look forward to:
- Tech Forecast 2017: IT sharpens its focus
- Video: Hiring, budgets, disruptive tech and more
- 5 tech trends to double-down on now
- 5 disruptive technologies to track in 2017
- 10 hottest tech skills for 2017
- Slideshow: Facts and figures for the year ahead
- Slideshow: IT leaders' boldest predictions for 2017 and beyond
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