The recent research published by Colt Technology Services, a leading digital infrastructure firm, suggests new potential for business partners. This comes as IT executives increasingly seek expert insights and support regarding AI and intelligent infrastructure.
As per Colt’s Annual Digital Infrastructure report, there are notable growth opportunities for those partners trading in technologies that are crucial for AI adoption and digital infrastructure. Cited as ‘absolutely essential’ for AI deployment are technologies such as 5G (22%), agile connectivity (20%), and edge (20%). There’s also a burgeoning market for business partners who are selling consumption-based networks to fortify their organizations amidst global volatility.
Conducted across Europe and Asia, the Colt survey captured responses from 755 IT leaders and indicated a growing inclination towards expanding their knowledge of AI and intelligent infrastructure through a variety of partners. Software-as-a-Service providers (34%), hardware vendors (33%), and systems integrators or connectivity partners (32%) were among the top preferences. Consultants accounted for 31%, while CSPs were at 29%.
Moreover, it was apparent from the study that the uptake of On Demand connectivity continues to soar, with 20% respondents considering it crucial for their businesses and 76% deeming it considerably important. Close to 89% participants expressed interest — or had already started adopting — On Demand connectivity as a part of their intelligent digital infrastructure. Colt’s survey also revealed areas that partners can assist clients end-users with, primarily guidance and understanding of their intelligent infrastructure.
However, the study also illustrated some friction areas in the relationships between partners and IT leaders, with about 19% respondents citing issues with external partners as a significant obstacle. Poor integration was flagged by 28% as a barrier to effective digital infrastructure management, and lack of partner APIs was a hurdle for 34% respondents.
“Our research provides an accurate snapshot of what is currently prioritising vendors while also alluding to emerging opportunities for partners and resellers. We discovered that IT leaders were quite candid about their requirements”, commented Ruth Welter, VP – Strategic Alliances at Colt Technology Services. She added that the landscape of partnership had evolved recently with partners evolving into advisors and consultants thanks to their understanding of enterprise technology. Welter suggests that this is the perfect time for partners to address any integration challenges and to seize the momentum of the next digital revolution.
