Pure Storage, a technology company specializing in advanced data storage, foresees that artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability will be pivotal in shaping technology adoption and talent development in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) in 2024. The company’s insights are derived from ongoing political, social, and economic uncertainties, prompting businesses to be cautious about tech investments while focusing on leveraging AI and meeting sustainability goals.
These expectations are grounded in a recent commissioned study, ‘Drivers of Change: Meeting the Energy and Data Challenges of AI Adoption.’ The study underscores the importance of reevaluating data infrastructure to harness the sustainable and economic benefits of AI.
Pure Storage’s 2024 predictions highlight the significant role of AI in reshaping cloud computing, particularly with the rise of hyperscalers offering AI-specific services like GPU Cloud. This shift is expected to disrupt the dominance of incumbent IaaS hyperscalers. Furthermore, the emergence of sovereign clouds, complying with data location regulations, is anticipated in 2024, driven by stringent regulations, especially in the financial services sector, and complexities arising from AI systems like GenAI. Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Indonesia are leading this trend in the Asia Pacific.
In line with environmental sustainability efforts, IT departments are expected to contribute significantly to corporate sustainability objectives. Collaborative efforts between the Chief Technology Officer, Chief Digital Officer, and the Head of Sustainability will focus on enhancing IT’s role in sustainability, particularly through energy efficiency improvements via software standardization, addressing the estimated 90% energy waste due to inefficient software.
The growing demand for talent in Generative AI and related areas such as cloud computing, Kubernetes, data architecture, and cybersecurity will pose challenges, contributing to a talent crunch. This demand extends to traditionally low-tech sectors like agriculture, forestry, and fishing as they increasingly adopt data analytics.
In terms of channel-specific predictions for 2024, partner programs are expected to emphasize diverse incentive structures, partner autonomy, and skills development. Consultative sales, incentive programs, resource provision for skills development, and self-service tools will be key components. Organizations will likely shape their channel strategy around developing strategic ecosystems of technology alliances to enhance market reach and solution offerings.
Amy Rushall, Area Vice President for Australia and New Zealand at Pure Storage, commented on the outlook, noting that while it’s an exciting time in the industry, adoption comes with challenges. Financial flexibility, data center modernization, environmental sustainability, and AI adoption are identified as key factors affecting technology adoption in the region, and Pure Storage aims to assist organizations in navigating these challenges for optimal outcomes.
