The global IT scene is constantly changing. That means it’s important for organizations to not only keep up with the latest trends but to also plan for upcoming transitions in technology and process. When you endeavor to “future-proof” your tech team this way, it will help you to grow and sustain your business for years to come. Here are six key ways to accomplish this goal:

1. Identify Emerging Technologies That Deserve Your Consideration

Several new and emerging tech advances will continue to disrupt the status quo within the IT industry. AI is undoubtedly at the top of this list. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, an increasing number of human roles will be changed or replaced by automation. By the same token, this IT trend will lead to a greater demand for developers and analysts who are skilled in managing AI-driven platforms. 

Advances in machine learning and quantum computing will result in a similar change across the IT sector. The key is to identify these and other technologies that will impact your business. Then, you can begin planning for how best to leverage the upcoming period of transition to your advantage.

2. Invest in Adaptable Professionals With a Growth Mindset

According to the IDC, an IT skills shortage is expected to impact nine out of 10 organizations by 2026, resulting in a cost of $5.5 trillion in delays, quality issues, and lost revenue. With that in mind, it’s vital to invest in professionals now who have demonstrated the ability to learn and adapt to changing demands within the industry.

Some roles indeed require candidates who already have a certain level of specific technical expertise. However, companies with a focus on the future will seek out employees who not only have baseline competence in the present but who are willing to continuously learn new skills.

3. Hire Consultants With Niche Skill Sets

Realistically, you may not be able to solve all the challenges presented by rapid changes in IT trends with members of your staff alone. At times, it may be wise to search for help outside of your organization — i.e., consultants who have the knowledge and experience to fill specific project needs.

Many companies have found that using an IT consulting and placement firm like The Doyle Group — a firm that offers a range of solutions, from contract, to contract-to-hire, to project-based work, to offshore and nearshore services — is a cost-effective way to source the right talent at the right time.

4. Adopt a Strategic Workforce Education Program

By the end of 2025, it is expected that more than half of the global workforce will need to undergo continuous training to stay relevant in their roles. This highlights the mission-critical nature of a continuing education program for your IT employees. Put in the resources to keep their skills fresh and relevant. Give them opportunities for career growth and personal development. Also, keep in mind that investing in your employees this way signals to them your commitment to their future with your company.

5. Work Hard to Retain Your Top Talent

Losing one of your top performers can be extremely costly for your business. This is especially true when that employee has a specialized skill set that’s not easily replaced. For that reason, do everything within your power to retain your top talent.

Look for ways to keep employees engaged. For example, take the initiative to foster a supportive and dynamic work environment. Ensure that their direct reports are having regular one-on-one check-ins with them. Employee engagement surveys are helpful, but the best way to understand what makes your top performers tick is to have in-person conversations with them. If you find out that reasonable changes to your process or work environment need to be made, don’t hesitate to make them.

It’s cliche to say that a company’s #1 resource is its people, but that old adage absolutely holds true. Take care of your people, and your people will take care of you.

6. Ensure Your Infrastructure Can Handle New Technologies

You won’t be able to predict what the next wave of technology will look like with 100% accuracy. However, you can take practical steps now to prepare your infrastructure to incorporate new technologies into your current tech stack.

For instance, many innovations are powered by cloud-based platforms. If you haven’t done so already, why not work on transitioning from a legacy system to a cloud-based one? At the very least, it may be wise to start exploring different options that will meet your company’s storage and security needs, and at the same time pave the way for future change.

Continue to Adapt to IT Trends

While it’s inevitable that advances in technology and fluctuating IT trends will continue to challenge business organizations to adapt, you can turn those challenges into growth opportunities by planning ahead, investing in your talent, and taking the initiative in infrastructure preparation. To learn more about how our team at The Doyle Group can help, reach out today to start the conversation.