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Navigating The Tech Readiness Paradox: Insights From The 2024 Kyndryl Readiness Report

Business leaders globally are navigating a paradox. While confident in their current IT systems, many question their readiness for future risks and transformative technologies. The 2024 Kyndryl Readiness Report, informed by insights from 3,200 leaders and exclusive data from Kyndryl Bridge, highlights this tension.

A Confidence Gap In Risk Preparedness

The report reveals that while 90% of leaders view their IT infrastructure as best-in-class, only 39% feel adequately equipped to handle emerging risks. Cybersecurity remains the top concern, followed by policy shifts and environmental disruptions. Just 29% of leaders feel ready to face multiple external risks simultaneously.

Outdated Systems And Tech Paradoxes

Despite optimism around current systems, 44% of servers, networks, and operating systems are nearing or at the end of their lifecycle. This aging infrastructure poses a significant challenge, with 61% of leaders concerned about the ability of their IT systems to support future needs.

Modernization: A Priority With Barriers

Tech modernization is a universal priority, with 94% of executives ranking it as critical. However, progress is uneven. Over half (56%) are mid-transition, while 16% are just starting out. The journey is hindered by complexity, competing priorities, and the challenge of balancing immediate needs with long-term goals.

The AI Conundrum

Artificial intelligence investments are widespread, with businesses embracing both traditional and generative AI. Yet only 42% report a positive return on these investments. Furthermore, while 86% consider their AI implementation top-tier, 71% doubt their IT’s readiness to fully integrate AI solutions.

The Rewards Of Modernisation

Businesses that succeed in modernizing their tech report significant benefits:

  • 85% saw increased operational efficiency.
  • 71% achieved improved innovation.
  • 60% noted enhanced employee or customer experiences.

Conclusion

The 2024 Kyndryl Readiness Report paints a complex picture: while confidence in current IT systems is high, the readiness to confront future risks and seize technological opportunities is lagging. This gap highlights the urgent need for businesses to accelerate their tech modernization efforts, simplify processes, and bridge the disconnect between innovation and operational priorities. Leaders who successfully navigate these challenges will not only future-proof their organizations but also unlock significant competitive advantages, from greater efficiency and innovation to improved customer and employee experiences. 

The message is clear—modernization is no longer optional; it’s the cornerstone of sustainable growth and resilience in an unpredictable world.

TikTok Returns To US App Stores 

TikTok is once again available for download in the Apple and Google app stores in the US, following a delay in the enforcement of its ban by former President Donald Trump. The ban’s postponement until April 5 gives the administration additional time to evaluate the situation.

Key Developments

The decision to restore TikTok access came after Google and Apple received reassurances from the Trump administration that they would not face legal consequences for reinstating the Chinese-owned app. According to Bloomberg, US Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter outlining these guarantees.

In an executive order signed on January 20, Trump instructed the attorney general not to take enforcement action for 75 days, providing time for his administration to determine how to proceed.

Uncertain Future For TikTok In The US

While TikTok is back on the US app stores, its long-term survival remains uncertain. If no deal is reached by early April to address national security concerns, the app may face another shutdown. ByteDance, the parent company, has insisted that TikTok is not for sale.

Legislation And Pressure On ByteDance

The Protecting Americans from Foreign Enemy-Controlled Apps Act, which passed with bipartisan support in Congress, mandates a nationwide ban on TikTok unless ByteDance sells its US operations. This law was signed by President Joe Biden in April of last year.

In late January, the app was briefly removed from US stores following the ban’s activation, impacting over 170 million American users. However, TikTok was restored soon after, following Trump’s intervention in his first hours as president. During that time, he signed an executive order allowing 75 days for a deal that would safeguard national security. Trump also suggested that the US could take a 50% stake in TikTok, a move he believed would keep the app “in good hands.”

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