TD SYNNEX’s Third Annual Direction of Technology Report reveals that channel partners are increasingly prioritizing investments in AI and GenAI technologies, with nearly half planning to offer AI-driven solutions within the next two years. The survey, which involved over 1,000 technology resellers and managed service providers globally, highlighted key trends influencing the IT market, including the importance of cybersecurity certifications (58%) and AI specialization (45%). Despite challenges such as increased competition and margin pressure affecting 52% of respondents, there was a 6.2% increase in worldwide IT spending in 2024, reaching $4.9 trillion. The report emphasizes the need to balance innovation and core technologies, with security remaining a top priority for partners. Looking ahead, 50% of respondents aim for organic growth, while 42% plan to engage further with the channel. 65% of respondents received requests for Generative AI proofs of concept in 2024, while 75% reported closing deals involving AI.
Syncro has released the results of a benchmark survey conducted by Topline Strategy Group in August 2024, revealing that 90% of managed service providers (MSPs) expect growth in the next 12 to 18 months despite economic concerns. 30% expressed some concern about a recession. The survey, which included 219 MSPs with employee counts between 3 and 100, indicated that 71% of respondents reported growth over the past 18 months. Notably, 90% of MSPs do not plan to reduce their foundational technology investments, even amidst recession worries. The primary business objectives for MSPs remain growth (73%) and profitability (64%). Key concerns for MSPs include cybersecurity threats, competition, and maintaining profitability. 75% of MSPs struggle with billing inefficiencies, leading to a loss of revenue.
The surge in AI and GenAI adoption is not speculative. Nearly 50% of partners plan to invest in these areas, signaling an accelerated demand for AI expertise. IT services providers should frame their AI offerings as part of a broader solution stack, with cybersecurity and traditional IT services remaining top-of-mind for clients. I remain convinced that data management is the real differentiator, as it spans cyber and AI.