FEATURE : 2025 CIOS ’ FEATURE PRIORITY: private ), embracing cloud-native architectures while adopting multi-cloud and hybrid strategies to maintain flexibility . Implementing FinOps practices will be critical to managing costs and maximizing cloud investments . Addressing talent gaps is another pressing issue . CIOs should focus on modernizing internal applications and infrastructure while upskilling in areas like AI , cybersecurity , platform engineering , and automation . Encouraging remote and hybrid work environments and fostering a collaborative , adaptive culture will further enhance their ability to execute and adapt to business and customer needs .
CIOs should consider creating composable and modular IT architectures as part of their modernization initiatives , allowing for rapid adaptation to changing business threats and requirements . This approach includes leveraging service-level abstractions , APIfirst strategies , and low-code platforms to build and reassemble digital services efficiently . Lastly , preparing for the advent of quantum computing is essential . CIOs should explore quantum-safe cryptography and pilot projects to stay ahead of potential disruptions .
Charles Crouchman , Chief Product Officer , Redwood Software
Treating AI as a Solution in Search of a Problem : Many IT teams will continue to view AI as a standalone solution that can operate independently , without embedding it directly into business processes . They may overlook critical questions like , “ What business
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