The newly released OneAdvanced IT Services Trends Report 2025 highlights that cybersecurity, data management, and technology integration are the key priorities for IT leaders heading into 2025. As 76% of organizations outsource some or all of their IT functions, the report underscores the growing importance of collaborating with IT service providers to drive business growth and productivity.
Cybersecurity as the Top IT Priority
With 52% of IT leaders identifying cybersecurity as their number one priority, securing digital assets has become more critical than ever. However, the report also reveals that 50% of IT leaders are focused on improving analytics and data management, while 45% are looking to integrate innovative technologies such as AI and IoT into their operations.
Challenges: Budget Constraints and Lack of Strategic Alignment
Despite the clear role of IT in driving growth, 44% of IT leaders cite budget constraints as the primary challenge in adopting new technologies. Additionally, only 20% of IT leaders report that their organizations view IT as a strategic business imperative. This disconnect creates friction, with 27% of IT leaders struggling to convince senior stakeholders of the value of innovation.
Technology Integration and Modernization Needs
Integration with existing systems remains a hurdle for many businesses, with 34% of IT leaders citing integration issues as a significant challenge. To overcome this, 45% of IT leaders prioritize the integration of AI and IoT, while 43% aim to modernize legacy systems and infrastructure to meet future demands.
Commentary on IT Leadership and Innovation
Alex Jeffery, SVP of Managed IT Services at OneAdvanced, emphasized:
“IT leaders are crucial in addressing the pressing challenges of cybersecurity threats and tech integration. Despite the undeniable importance of IT in driving business processes, many organizations struggle to view IT as more than just a cost center. As threats evolve and integration barriers persist, businesses must recognize IT as a transformative force for growth and efficiency.”
The Growing Role of Managed IT Service Providers
The report reveals a marked increase in reliance on external IT service providers. The top benefits include flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, with 76% of organizations partnering with IT service providers to handle some or all of their IT needs. Although challenges such as the cost of change (41%) remain, organizations increasingly recognize the significant value of managed IT services.
The Value of IT Service Partnerships
Alex Jeffery concluded:
“Partnering with a managed IT service provider helps alleviate skills shortages and the challenges of modernizing legacy technologies. A reliable IT partner can enable smoother transitions, improved efficiency, and ensure a seamless user experience.”
As cybersecurity, data management, and tech integration take center stage for IT leaders in 2025, partnering with expert IT service providers becomes essential for organizations to overcome challenges and drive sustainable growth.
