2018-IT现代化_数字化转型的关键（英文版）

报告摘要

IT Modernization: Critical to Digital Transformation

Core Content

This white paper explores the importance of IT modernization in supporting digital transformation, highlighting the growing recognition among senior IT decision makers of its strategic value. It outlines the current state of IT systems, the challenges of modernization, and the emerging technologies and approaches that are shaping the future of IT operations.

Main Points

IT Modernization is Essential: Senior IT decision makers see IT modernization as critical to addressing the needs of the digital business, with significant potential for revenue growth and cost reduction.
Current Systems Fall Short: Conventional IT systems are not fit for purpose in meeting the demands of a digital-first business. Only 33% of large organizations' systems are modernized, and most (80%) believe that not modernizing will negatively impact long-term growth.
Two Distinct IT Approaches are Needed: To meet the diverse needs of the business, organizations require both a predictable approach (for optimizing core systems) and an exploratory approach (for innovation). Modernized IT systems are essential for both.
Cloud is a Priority: A cloud-first approach is becoming standard, with many organizations planning to move towards hybrid IT environments. PaaS adoption is expected to grow significantly, surpassing IaaS in the coming years.
ROI is a Key Driver: Business ROI benefits are seen as crucial for justifying modernization projects. However, many organizations struggle to demonstrate these benefits, leading to budget constraints and lack of executive support.
Modern Software Engineering is Vital: Techniques such as DevOps, agile development, and cloud-first strategies are widely recognized as key components of modernization. Yet, only a minority believe they are fully utilizing these practices.
Process Automation is on the Rise: Organizations are increasingly looking to deploy process automation technologies (robotic, intelligent, and cognitive) to improve efficiency and competitiveness. However, adoption is still limited due to resource and skill gaps.
External Support is Critical: Given the complexity of modernization, many organizations are turning to external partners for expertise and support, especially in areas like cloud migration and process automation.

Key Insights

Revenue and Cost Impact

Modernized IT systems are expected to boost annual revenue by 14% (up to $1 billion for large organizations).
Business operating costs could be reduced by over 13% through modernization.

Technology Breakdown

Legacy systems make up the majority (67%) of current IT infrastructure.
Conventional systems are also prevalent, with only 33% of systems being modernized.
PaaS adoption is expected to grow significantly, surpassing IaaS in the next three years.

ROI Challenges

93% of respondents believe business ROI must be included in the modernization case.
53% still report demonstrating ROI as a key challenge.
44% cannot find budget outside of the IT department for modernization.

Cloud-First Strategy

47% of organizations still run most custom apps on-premises.
87% plan to use vendor-provided cloud stacks (e.g., Microsoft Azure Stack) to support hybrid IT environments.

Modern Software Engineering

89% of respondents believe MSE is critical for addressing digital business needs.
Common techniques used include DevOps (72%), agile development (69%), and cloud-first (67%).
Only 30-31% believe they are fully leveraging these techniques.

Process Automation

56% expect robotic automation, 61% intelligent automation, and 59% cognitive automation to be deployed within three years.
62% cite security as the main concern for automation.
44% face resource limitations, and 37% lack in-house skills.

External Support

92% of organizations rely on external support for process automation, similar to MSE.
51% use third-party support for robotic automation, 63% for intelligent, and 64% for cognitive automation.

Conclusion

IT modernization is not just a technical upgrade but a strategic imperative for digital transformation. Organizations are increasingly aware of the benefits it can bring, yet face challenges in demonstrating ROI, securing budget, and acquiring the necessary skills. A cloud-first, hybrid approach is emerging as the preferred path, supported by a combination of modern software engineering and process automation. External expertise is becoming a key enabler for organizations to overcome these hurdles and achieve their digital goals.

Recommendations

Develop a comprehensive business case that includes both IT and business ROI.
Invest in modern software engineering practices and cloud-first strategies.
Consider a hybrid IT model to balance innovation with security and operational stability.
Seek external support to bridge capability gaps and accelerate modernization efforts.
Focus on process automation as a key enabler of efficiency and competitiveness.