Key insights from Info-Tech Research Group’s latest report.
Info-Tech Research Group has recently published its Applications Priorities 2025 report, detailing the key priorities and challenges shaping the future of IT application strategies.
The global research and advisory firm’s report has identified five critical priorities that IT leaders need to address to remain adaptive and resilient in this unstable and dynamic industry.
“The importance of aligning application strategies with business objectives is particularly critical for organisations across the UK, where evolving customer expectations, the potential impact of AI and regulatory pressures are reshaping the digital landscape,” says Phil Brunkard, Executive Counselor at Info-Tech Research Group, UK. “By embracing democratised AI, improving data accessibility, and modernising legacy systems, IT leaders can drive innovation, control costs and enhance operational efficiency, ensuring their organisations remain competitive in an increasingly complex environment.”
In particular, the report emphasises that IT leaders must balance user empowerment with governance and scalability – enabling innovation while mitigating risks. With users increasingly demanding greater control over their tools and data, organisations need to adopt democratised IT practices, explains Andrew Kum-Seun, Research Director at Info-Tech Research Group and lead author of the report.
“Applications are no longer just tools – they’re strategic enablers,” says Andrew. “Organisations must align their application strategies with business objectives to ensure they deliver value, foster innovation and remain adaptable in the face of rapid change. By addressing critical issues like technical debt, data quality and user empowerment, IT leaders can unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable growth.”
Info-Tech’s report insights: The key priorities for applications leaders in 2025
According to the report, these are the five priorities critical for IT leaders seeking to build scalable and user-centric application strategies:
- Digital products: Organisations must create engaging and valuable digital experiences for users, customers, employees and partners, including designing user-centric, adaptable and secure products that align with evolving customer needs and market trends.
- Platform management and orchestration: Modern platforms must serve as scalable, interoperable ecosystems that empower users to build, customise and extend solutions. Effective platform management and orchestration ensure accessibility, reliability and adaptability.
- Democratised AI: By extending AI access to all employees, organisations can foster innovation and productivity across the enterprise. Democratised AI requires robust governance, accessible tools and strategies for scaling AI adoption.
- Broad data access: Expanding access to trusted data sources and analysis tools empowers employees to make informed, data-driven decisions. Data literacy initiatives and comprehensive governance are critical to maximising the value of organisational data.
- End-to-end business process optimisation: Scaling business automation requires optimising roles, processes and technologies to improve efficiency and reduce manual intervention. By adopting end-to-end optimisation strategies, organisations can drive better outcomes across workflows.
Overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities
Info-Tech’s report also explores the disruptors and challenges IT leaders face as they navigate the complexities of modern application management. These key issues include:
- Technical debt: Poorly managed technical debt can lead to inefficient systems and hinder innovation. Addressing technical debt is essential for maintaining flexibility and scalability.
- Data quality: Inaccurate or incomplete data undermines decision-making, automation and compliance efforts. Organisations must prioritise data quality through governance, strategy and technology investments.
- User expectations: With the rapid evolution, accessibility and availability of applications, users are demanding more control and expecting more from their applications. Balancing user empowerment with governance is a growing challenge for IT teams.
“The rapid evolution of exponential technologies like generative AI has created both opportunities and risks for IT leaders,” says Andrew. “By embracing user-centric design, enhancing data accessibility, and fostering collaboration across the enterprise, organisations can position themselves for success in 2025 and beyond.”
Source: Info-Tech Research Group
