My 2025 Predictions in IT and Tech

My ten predictions for IT and technology in 2025, presented here in no particular order, stem from a mix of market analysis, research publications, and shared experiences with CEOs, CIOs, and CTOs across industries in 2024. These insights combine hard data with anecdotal evidence, giving a balanced perspective that resonates with business and tech leaders alike.

1. Agentic AI and Automation will transform the workforce

Imagine having a team of minions – but highly competent ones. The rise of copilots in the Generative AI boom is evolving into Agentic AI: fully autonomous software components capable of assessing situations and taking action with little or no human intervention. This evolution has the potential to double the workforce by 2025 as organisations manage not only human employees but also AI agents.

For instance, PwC highlights how these agents could act as multipliers rather than mere assistants. By 2028, Gartner predicts that 15% of daily workplace decisions will be made autonomously by these agents. Imagine a virtual workforce that adapts, learns, and delivers productivity gains across industries – from supply chain management to customer service.

Business leaders will prepare for this transformation by building trust in AI systems and equipping their teams with frameworks to manage a blended workforce of humans and AI.

2. Cyber-resiliency will counter AI-driven threats

As AI evolves, so do cybercriminals. AI-driven attacks are growing in complexity and frequency, forcing organisations to rethink their cybersecurity strategies. 👾 Mick Baccio, a global Splunk security advisor, emphasises that by 2025, cybersecurity will heavily rely on AI to detect and respond to these threats.

A real-world example? AI tools already automate threat detection in industries like finance and healthcare. Splunk’s adaptive security platforms show how AI can counteract evolving attacks, offering both speed and accuracy.

Organisations will invest in AI-enabled cybersecurity solutions and up-skill their teams to understand and combat these new threats.

3. Legacy systems replacement by modular solutions will accelerate

By 2027, 75% of global businesses will replace their monolithic systems with modular, API-driven solutions. This shift reduces the technical debt tied to outdated systems while enabling agility and scalability.

Take a leading retailer: transitioning from a monolithic ERP to modular cloud platforms helped them reduce downtime and optimise operations. This kind of success highlights why breaking down legacy systems isn’t just about cost but about staying competitive.

Businesses will prioritise modular transformation plans that align with business goals, focusing on seamless transitions with minimal disruption.

4. Cloud ERP will shift from expense to opportunity

Cloud ERP often gets dismissed as expensive, but this view overlooks the hidden costs of technical debt from outdated systems. Moving to SaaS-based ERP platforms eliminates manual workarounds and maintenance costs while offering flexibility.

For instance, a mid-sized manufacturing firm adopted cloud ERP and achieved a 40% reduction in IT costs while improving operational efficiency.

Leaders will assess their current technical debt and weigh it against the long-term benefits of SaaS solutions.

5. Data systems will move from siloed to synchronised

Data integration is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Businesses will shift from siloed data storage to synchronised, AI-driven systems that provide real-time insights. For example, an automotive company used integrated IoT sensors and predictive analytics to reduce production defects by 25%.

Organisations will focus on building data synchronisation pipelines to enhance decision-making and customer outcomes.

6. AI-Driven automation will set new Managed Services standards

AI is setting a new benchmark for managed services by automating ticket processing, threat responses, and predictive maintenance. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) will leverage AI to proactively identify vulnerabilities and optimise performance.

In some cases, AI-driven automation in MSPs has reduced response times for cyber threats by 60%.

Businesses will partner with MSPs equipped with AI capabilities to ensure resilience and efficiency. For more insights, you can refer to my other article, which explains the benefits of partnering with a reliable MSP in detail.

7. AI personal computers will revolutionise work and homes

AI-enabled PCs will revolutionise the industry. Gartner predicts shipments will double to 116 million units by 2025, with professionals and consumers benefiting from on-device AI capabilities. Qualcomm’s CEO, Cristiano Amon, described the AI PC as “a rebirth”, delivering groundbreaking capabilities akin to the launch of Windows 95.

Businesses will prepare for a workforce equipped with AI PCs by modernising applications and up-skilling employees. For further insights on this topic, you can check out my article about the rise of AI PCs and their impact.

8. Private cloud solutions will gain momentum

On-premises computing is making a comeback as organisations prioritise sovereignty, cost control, and data ownership. Alternatives to VMware, like Nutanix and OpenStack, will accelerate traction as companies seek flexible private cloud solutions.

CIOs will explore diverse private cloud options to address data security and compliance challenges. For additional insights, you can refer to my Substack discussing the dilemma of staying with or leaving VMware, which provides a deeper dive into the evolving private cloud landscape.

9. Digital Twins and IoT will create smarter cities

Digital twins, powered by IoT and real-time data, will reshape industries and cities. Urban digital twins, for example, will allow planners to simulate and optimise everything from traffic flow to energy consumption. These tools are already being used in cities like Zurich, Singapore and London to improve urban living.

Leaders in both the public and private sectors will leverage digital twins to optimise operations and enhance customer experience.

10. Up-skilling and re-skilling will define the workforce of the future

The workforce of 2025 will include both human and AI employees. As Marco Argenti, CIO at Goldman Sachs, notes, roles like “human and machine capital managers” will emerge to oversee this hybrid workforce.

Leaders will prioritise up-skilling and re-skilling to ensure employees can collaborate effectively with AI tools and embrace new roles.

Final Thoughts

The future of IT and tech is brimming with opportunities, but success lies in preparation and adaptability. Business leaders and tech professionals must work together to embrace these trends, prioritising customer-centric and people-first approaches.

As we reflect on these predictions, consider the following:

1. How might our organisations integrate Agentic AI or AI-driven cybersecurity into their strategic roadmaps? What are the blockers?

2. What steps can we take today to break free from legacy systems or adopt private cloud solutions without disruptions to the business or for our customers?

And finally, what other emerging technologies, priorities, or predictions should have made this list?

I’d love to hear your thoughts and insights. Happy 2025!

My name is Libero Raspa. I assist businesses in harnessing the power of technology at adesso UK, and I appreciate your time.