BUSINESS CORNER
THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR FORWARD-
THINKING IT SERVICES PROFESSIONALS
BY BRIAN SHERMAN, COMPTIA
When properly utilized, new technologies like
blockchain and AI deliver numerous benefits.
Based on trends identified in the CompTIA IT
Industry Outlook 2019 report, now is the perfect
time for IT services providers to start offering
new solutions to their SMB clients – if they
haven’t already.
Keep the Focus on Business
Channel professionals have two main things
to consider when assessing their opportunities
with emerging technologies. First, which offerings
are the best fit for their business? An IT services
firm that primarily supports banks and other
financial organizations may not have a need for
drones. However, those clients may be ready to
investigate blockchain and artificial intelligence
options and could benefit from a provider’s
guidance and support.
Second, what resources and training will be
needed? Adding offerings like blockchain and
VR into the portfolio will require more changes
than complementary technologies like IoT.
The number of resources required to integrate
advanced solutions will vary, but the hottest
options add a few wrinkles to the equation.
What Comes Next?
Another reason for channel firms to adopt
more leading-edge technologies is to keep pace
with the innovation cycle. The IT advances of the
past two decades may pale in comparison to
the developments to come in the next five years
using AI, blockchain, and 5G capabilities.
Today’s technologies will inevitably make way
for more innovative alternatives and IT services
pros must become more knowledgeable and
proficient in those areas if they wish to survive.
Providers may also profit from developing
intellectual property, including custom coding
to build new solutions based on these emerging
tech options.
2019 should be an exciting time in the
channel. Based on the latest research, these
advanced technologies should help providers
and their clients forge new revenue and business
opportunities in the months and years ahead.
Read the complimentary CompTIA IT Industry
Outlook 2019 report for an industry overview and
emerging trends to watch.
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