With all the hype surrounding digital transformation, CIOs could be forgiven for forgetting that the long-standing elements of infrastructure are still crucial and, in fact, matter more than ever before.

While media attention might centre on innovation, IT decision makers cannot afford to disregard operational concerns across both hardware and software. CIOs must create a stable, reliable platform for digital transformation through lead-edge technologies such as cloud, big data and automation.

By incorporating a sturdy IT services set-up into their organisations, CIOs can avoid costly mistakes and ensure their businesses go from strength to strength. So what can happen if you don’t keep your IT services fresh? We investigate three potential problem areas – and how to overcome challenges.

Look for service simplification to remove points of failure

Technology is the key to help smart businesses respond effectively in the modern age. However, the attention to digital transformation means IT services is sometimes overlooked as a key component within business technology. It is a potentially hugely damaging oversight. For a start, the probability of failure is much higher if your technology becomes old or slow due to lack of maintenance.

The key to success, even in an age of complex and fast-changing business demands, is simplification. Darryl Carlton, research director at Gartner, says IT systems are often not built with the same reliability, integrity and predictability as other engineering disciplines, despite the best advice being available.

CIOs must call on trusted service providers as they maintain critical technology systems. These experts will help the business to manage the entire lifecycle of critical IT assets. Only by making the most of IT services, in areas such as consulting, testing and assessment, will your business be ready for the future.

Consult with operational experts to reduce the strain on internal resources 

The demand for digital transformation means pressure on the IT department continues to rise. Even in an uncertain world, businesses direct more money to advanced systems and services. Worldwide IT spending is forecast to grow from $2.46 trillion in 2015 to more than $2.8 trillion in 2019, according to IDC.

Businesses need IT workers who understand the best of modern systems and services, and work with the rest of the firm to extract the most value from its continued investment in technology. The modern technology professional must be outward facing and ready to help the business make the most of IT.

Yet IT employees will only be able to maintain that external business focus if they are not weighed down by operational concerns. By working with an IT services specialist, technology chiefs can dedicate limited human resources to work outside the IT department.

Working with trusted specialists to build a case for service integration

In a period of rapid and constant change, the business needs to know it can rely on stable technology platforms. IT services can play a key role. From legacy technologies, to new cloud systems and on to advanced analytics, the business will only be able to stay competitive in the digital era if technology is available.

IT decision makers will need to find a way to bring these services together. Great IT services from a trusted partner can help support your business case for system integration, helping to demonstrate how technologies can be brought together in new and exciting ways.

When it comes to finding a trusted partner, IT leaders must pay careful attention to strengths and capabilities. Analyst Gartner says cloud acceleration, digital business strategies and cost optimisation determine which IT services providers are the most successful. With the right IT services partner, your organisation will be confident its integrated systems can support business change.

Read more on how IT services are the unsung hero for business productivity

References 

Darryl Carlton on IT failure: http://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/it-projects-need-less-complexity-not-more-governance/ 

IDC on IT spending: https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS41006516

Gartner on IT services market share: https://www.gartner.com/doc/3310718/market-share-analysis-it-services

Mark Samuels

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Tags: Business, Productivity