The high investment in Information Technology is already a reality in Brazil. According to information from the Brazilian Association of Software Companies (ABES), the country is among the top 10 global IT markets, with steady growth in the adoption of advanced technologies, reflecting the high demand for qualified professionals by existing organizations.
Recent data from the Deloitte consultancy reveals that companies prioritizing technology and innovation achieve revenues and profitability twice as high as those that do not invest in these sectors. Gartner, in turn, also highlighted the growing importance of IT. According to projections, by the end of 2024, global IT spending is expected to reach $5.26 trillion, representing a 7.5% increase compared to 2023.
In general, the rapid expansion of technologies strongly impacts the market. A study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), which interviewed 1,400 C-Level executives in 50 markets and 14 sectors, showed that 86% consider technology a significant opportunity and 75% plan to increase their investments in this sector this year. This highlights the need to be attentive to market trends and to integrate innovations into business strategies. After all, the adoption of new technologies offers numerous positive impacts, such as cost reduction, improved operational efficiency, and increased competitiveness.
Main trends for the coming months
With a busy first semester, full of discussions, innovations, and new demands in the tech sector, the trends predicted between 2023 and 2024 have been refined and adapted to new needs. From these analyses, it is possible to highlight:
- Adaptation and increased use of AI
One of the segments that will continue to attract substantial investments is Artificial Intelligence (AI). In addition to facilitating routine tasks quickly and accurately, AI reduces the complexity of processes and bureaucratic activities in companies. In 2024, Generative Artificial Intelligence (gen AI), which goes beyond simple analysis and automation, has also gained prominence, creating innovative content and solutions. Large Language Models (LLMs) and advanced machine learning techniques enable the production of original insights, creative process automation, and intuitive and efficient customization of experiences.
However, the increasing use of AI requires workers to develop new skills. Georgios Petropoulos, a researcher at MIT, points out that workers with medium qualifications are at risk of being replaced by technology or by professionals who know how to operate it.
In this sense, it is likely that qualification courses in AI will have high demand in the coming months, a movement also driven by the increasing use of AI by sectors outside tech. Another relevant point that should contribute to increasing the use of this technology is that, in Brazil, the New Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Plan was recently approved. The initiative foresees an investment of R$1.76 billion to improve public services.
However, we know that AI does not walk alone: the importance of hiring and qualifying professionals who not only understand current technologies, but are also prepared to adapt and learn emerging innovations is highlighted by various industry studies. According to the McKinsey report, companies that invest in training and developing technological skills tend to perform 45% better in the market than those who do not invest. LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report reveals that 94% of respondents said they would stay longer in a company if it invested in their learning and development.
The need for continuous skills enhancement is underscored by the rapid evolution of technologies, which transform business models and operations.
- Greater investments in cybersecurity
With hacker attacks, virtual scams, spread of images and fake news, cyber blackouts, among other challenges, investment in cybersecurity has become a top priority for organizations. According to a recent Ernst & Young (EY) study, cybersecurity is currently the second investment priority for CEOs in AI, second only to productivity.
- Data handling and protection
Defined as ‘raw material of information,’ data is the raw knowledge, not yet properly treated, that people and institutions produce, share, and make available, often used as providers of insights and the main source of guidance for actions by companies. Not surprisingly, handling, processing, and securing this information becomes an increasingly necessary practice. Debates on the subject, like the one recently seen in the episode where the Government banned the company Meta from using data from Brazilians in AI, as well as the end of third-party cookies, will be seen more frequently in the coming months, demanding new additions to legislation regarding its use in the years to come.
- Increase in the use of cloud computing
Cloud technology (cloud computing) refers to the infrastructure that offers computing services over the internet, dispensing the need for physical data centers. With a demand in constant evolution, cloud computing is projected for continuous growth, especially among companies adopting multi-cloud and hybrid strategies. These companies combine on-premises infrastructure with various cloud platforms to achieve greater flexibility and security. According to a study by IDC, by the end of 2024, the cloud data solutions market in Brazil is expected to reach $1.5 billion, and this trend of accelerated growth is likely to continue in the coming years.
Therefore, just like in the first semester, the second one will bring the continuity of advances and investments in technology and Industry 4.0, but in a broader and more concrete way. In the coming months, we should expect the application of capital in the area by companies from various sectors, regardless of whether they have technology as their core business, encompassing both private and public entities.
It is essential to recognize the role of Information Technology as an integral part of business strategy and to align with it. We must strive to study and keep up with its innovations, constantly improving our skills. Thus, it is possible to practically boost companies’ results and contribute to the progress of society as a whole.
