IT pros required to do more with less as security threats remain major concern

IT security remains a top priority for most UKI professionals as revealed by Logicalis’ 2023 IT Survey.

The survey finds 71 percent of IT pros list security as their top priority for the year. The survey, which canvassed the opinions of more 1000 IT pros from across the UK & Ireland, reports businesses are grappling with tightening IT budgets, changing IT priorities, and elevated concerns over security threats and technical skills shortages.

During uncertainty, digital transformation remains a key driver of innovation and security, noted report. “In an environment of escalating cyber threats that come with significant costs, investing in cybersecurity has become an essential requirement across all market conditions.”

Just under half (47 percent) of respondents identify security threats as their biggest challenges in 2023, followed closely by technical skills and resourcing (46 percent).  

The survey said IT leaders are increasingly levering the technical skills of external IT specialists to pursue digital strategies. In line with this, Logicalis’ 2023 CIO Survey revealed that while a third of CIOs already work with outsourced IT and managed services, 74 percent expect to increase this spending in the year ahead.

Budgetary pressure

Amid prevailing economic instability, 36 percent of IT professionals cite budgetary pressure as another major concern. The percentage of respondents expecting a decrease in their IT budgets has risen from 16 percent in 2022 to 25 percent in 2023. There is still a notable 35 percent seeing an increase (down from 51 percent), while 40 percent anticipate no change. IT teams are facing mounting pressure to bolster security while operating with limited budgets.

“In the face of an evolving IT security landscape, IT professionals are having to do more with less,” said Alex Louth, managing director, at Logicalis UK&I.

“In 2023, prioritisation is critical as organisations look to optimise their technology spending to drive successful digital transformation. Logicalis’ research shows that CIOs and transformation/data leaders are actively involving cross-functional leadership to capitalise on opportunities, mitigate risks, and safeguard their organisation. Having the right individuals in key positions is pivotal for driving organisational change and ensuring a smooth and impactful digital transformation.”