SOFTCAT BUSINESS TECH PRIORITIES REPORT 2023

An annual snapshot of the enterprise IT landscape in the UK and Ireland, provided by Softcat

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What is the Softcat Business Tech Priorities Report?

Each year, we ask our customers what technology solutions and services they plan to prioritise over the next 12 months to help them overcome the biggest challenges they are facing today.

The findings help us to understand how businesses across 27 industries and sectors (both public and private) are prioritising their technology investments to conquer the new normal and thrive. Once we've analysed these findings, we share them through the Softcat Business Tech Priorities Report.

This year's report is based on the views of more than 4,000 respondents in the UK and Ireland, offering a valuable insight into the IT landscape and how organisations are using technology to transform their operations, workforces and competitiveness.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT FOR:

A more in-depth look at the IT investments of more than 4,000 organisations in the UK and Ireland
A deeper dive into the report’s headline findings with experts from Softcat’s OCTO (Office of the Chief Technology Officer) to explore the trends, opportunities and challenges they’re seeing across each technology area.
A detailed overview of the biggest challenges that business expect to face over the next 12 months.
A spotlight on sustainability: With the climate crisis worsening and public attitudes changing, sustainability has become an issue business leaders can’t ignore.

INSIDE THE REPORT

The key themes of the Softcat Business Tech Priorities Report

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

70% said organisations are prioritising ‘People and Culture’ as their main environmental, social and governance (ESG) focus this year, followed by Sustainability (68%) and D&I (55%).

CYBER SECURITY

Cyber Security is the top technology focus in 2023, with 56% of respondents ranking this priority in their top three.

COMMERICIAL RISK

Commercial Risk, defined as market uncertainties and obstacles that might lead to losses, is also a concern for 40% of respondents.

PEOPLE RELATED CHALLENGES

48% of respondents are facing people-related challenges, with stiff competition for the best tech talent in the hiring market and challenges with retaining that talent.

HARNESSING DATA

Harnessing data (including strategy, governance, platforms and analytics) is the third most highly ranked tech priority, with 28% of respondents ranking it in their top three.

DEVICES AND END USER COMPUTING

Over a third (39%) cited Devices and End User Computing as one of their top three priorities over the next 12 months.

FOREWORD

"As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology, it is essential that we remain vigilant and adaptable.

The past year has seen global unrest, but it has also presented us with countless technological opportunities for growth and innovation. By taking a measured and strategic approach, we can effectively manage the risks associated with emerging technology, while also seizing the opportunities that it presents. It is critical that we remain proactive in our efforts to safeguard against cyber threats, integrate AI into our operations, and build digital resilience.

Only by embracing change and remaining steadfast in our commitment to progress can we hope to thrive in this new age of digital transformation. I look forward to continuing to work with our customers towards a brighter future!"

Richard Wyn Griffith
Chief Commercial Officer at Softcat