Navigating a Changing IT Landscape Through 5 Trends

Vianen, February 15, 2024 – The IT sector finds itself in the midst of a whirlwind of transformation and innovation. With the merging of traditional IT markets and the ever-expanding domain of cybersecurity, coupled with the increasing threat of cyber attacks and stricter regulations, the landscape is rich in both challenges and opportunities. Jasper van ’t Wout, Chief Strategy Officer at Avit, takes you through the five key trends shaping the IT sector in the coming times.

1. Merger of IT and Cybersecurity

The boundaries between IT networks and cybersecurity have been blurring for some time now. This transformation of traditional network infrastructure is driven by the rapid adoption of cloud technologies and the growing popularity of hybrid work, creating a greater need for security. The merging of these two worlds presents a dual challenge: while connectivity and flexibility are enhanced, the space for a cyber attack expands, requiring a holistic approach to security.

2. Tightened Laws and Regulations

The European Union is intensifying its regulations, particularly with regard to NIS2, which many organizations must comply with by the end of the summer. These guidelines, broader than before, come with a laundry list of requirements, including many technical specifications. Notably, there is a changing attitude among companies; while they used to be ashamed of a security incident, they now realize that no one is immune—the question is not if, but when the organization will be impacted by an incident. Despite measures taken, watertight security remains a challenge. NIS2 requires companies to demonstrate that they have done everything to prevent security incidents. Additionally, NIS2 emphasizes the importance of the supply chain: companies must traverse the entire chain to ensure security, as their suppliers may introduce vulnerabilities. The advent of API integrations in the chain further increases the cybersecurity risk.

3. Talent Shortages

Cybersecurity risks are increasing, fueled by a wave of advanced cyber attacks. The shortage of specialized security IT professionals exacerbates this challenge. The labor shortage in the IT sector, especially in cybersecurity, affects both the Netherlands and Europe. This problem, caused in part by aging, leads to increasing work pressure, resulting in a decrease in the attractiveness of the field. The sector also sees a rise in burnouts with resulting workforce attrition. To address these challenges, companies need to invest in tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation. By making these investments, companies become less dependent on their employees and can strive for improved cybersecurity despite the talent shortage.

4. The Growing Role of AI

AI opens new possibilities and is often essential for solving complex issues. It enables complete automation beyond what traditional methods allowed. In Security Operations Centers (SOC) and Network Operations Centers (NOC) environments, automation and AI play an increasingly crucial role, predicting incidents and taking proactive measures. One of the most valuable applications is guiding users to the right solutions, saving time and increasing efficiency.

5. Awareness of Sustainability

The demand for sustainable IT solutions is steadily growing, driven by an increasing awareness of sustainability and a growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance. Both the market and the government are placing more emphasis on sustainability. Government tenders, for example, are increasingly evaluated on sustainability, with a higher percentage of the assessment related to sustainability, from concept to implementation.

Amidst the rapid transformations and challenges in the IT sector, organizations are challenged to strengthen not only their security practices but also to be flexible in dealing with sustainability and ESG standards, as well as tightened laws and regulations like NIS2, making the year one that brings both challenges and opportunities.