What Really Matters in IT 5 Trends for Strategic Decision-Makers

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Currently, there is no standstill—rather, a new wave of complexity in technology. But what is truly relevant? And what risks becoming an expensive misstep if approached without a strategy?

Konrad Krafft is co-founder and managing director of Double Slash.

Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Edge Computing, and robust IT solutions are no longer experiments. Hyperautomation and Composable Architecture are transforming our processes, our systems—and above all, our thinking.

Our experience from numerous digital projects shows: Only those who understand technological trends early, classify them correctly, and integrate them systematically will remain competitive tomorrow. Here are the five trends shaping the year and a clear classification of what they mean for companies.

1. Artificial Intelligence Becomes the Standard—But Does Not Lead to Success on Its Own

Generative AI has become part of everyday life. Companies are already using AI systems to write texts, generate software code, or automate repetitive tasks. But the biggest mistake lies in assuming that this is enough.

AI is not plug-and-play but a paradigm shift. It requires clean data, stable architecture, and strategic integration into existing processes, as well as transparency and traceability. Many companies have prototypes in use but no scalable and, above all, reliable solutions yet.

Additionally: The actual change does not begin with the technology but in the minds. Those who view AI merely as a future topic for "the next generation" misunderstand the dynamics. The transformation is already here—and it is profound.

2. Cybersecurity: AI is Both A Risk And An Opportunity

The smarter systems become, the smarter their attackers also get. AI-generated phishing emails, autonomous malware, and realistic deepfakes are no longer fiction but reality. At the same time, companies are using AI to detect anomalies and attack patterns.

The knowledge for defense exists—but security awareness lags behind. We secure our homes with locks and alarm systems. Yet, in the digital space, many still act as if there are no intruders—and are surprised when something happens.

We need more than technologies—we need a shift in mindset. Zero Trust, threat visualization, and Security-by-Design are key components that must become standard. Because IT security must not be an add-on—it must be an integral part of every digital decision.

3. Cloud & Edge Computing: Data Sovereignty Becomes A Strategic Foundation

While cloud solutions provide scalability and elasticity, edge computing is gaining importance where data needs to be processed in real-time—directly in manufacturing, in vehicles, or in connected devices.

What is often missing: a differentiated view of data and processes. Not everything belongs in the cloud—especially when it comes to highly sensitive data. Hybrid architectures are gaining importance because they combine the best of both worlds: performance and control.

And: Data sovereignty becomes an entrepreneurial responsibility. European initiatives like Gaia-X and data spaces make it clear that values such as ownership, privacy, and integrity also matter in the digital realm—especially for companies with long-term vision.

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4. Industry 4.0: Without Standardization, Everything Remains Fragmented

Industrial companies are increasingly relying on smart sensors, automation, and predictive maintenance. The technologies are available—but what is missing is the systematization.

The problem is often not the technology itself but the integration. Too many proprietary interfaces, too few unified standards. The result: high effort, slow scaling, and fragmented IT landscapes.

An example: In the automotive industry, standardized bus systems have long been established. In manufacturing, however, individual solutions dominate. Those who rely on modern software technologies and harmonized interfaces not only gain efficiency but also future viability.

5. Sustainable IT: From Obligation to Quality

Data centers are among the largest energy consumers worldwide, and this will not change this year. However, awareness of sustainable IT is present. Hyperscalers rely on green electricity, water or air cooling, and waste heat utilization.

The often-overlooked leverage lies in the software: algorithms that work more efficiently not only save resources—they also reduce costs. This, too, is sustainability. Less data waste, smarter processes, and an architecture that does not scale unnecessarily make a noticeable difference.

Sustainability is no longer a bonus. It is becoming a fixed component of quality—just like security, usability, or performance.

Who Designs, Wins

This year, many digital trends will make the leap from the experimental phase to everyday life. Artificial intelligence will become an integral part of the working world, security concepts must be rethought, and sustainability is evolving from a choice to an obligation.

Companies that take these developments seriously and strategically integrate them into their processes not only strengthen their competitiveness—they create solutions with real added value. For more efficient operations, for more resilient structures—and ultimately for a better digital life.

Because one thing is certain: Digitalization will continue to profoundly change the way we work and live. The only question is: Who will be driven by it—and who will consciously drive it forward?