Summary

• Key themes included software integration, cyber security, cloud platforms, network infrastructure, ML, AI & automation

• A major theme was AI from the role of data within this space to understanding where AI can fit within a business and add real value

• Zero trust and cyber security were also very hot topics

• Board buy-in on shared responsibility for IT initiatives and budget support was covered

• The trend towards software integrations and digital customer experiences are expected to continue

DTX Manchester 2024, another 2-day innovation driven event for digital transformation and all based in the North! Over 6,000 visitors across the industry from digital leaders to channel to change influencers came together to showcase cutting-edge tech breakthroughs and tech advancements poised to shape the future. Key themes included software integration, cyber security, cloud platforms, network infrastructure, ML, AI & automation in retail, transport, education, financial and business communication.

Collaboration and Innovation in Engineering Technology

A major theme was AI from the role of data within this space to understanding where AI can fit within a business and add real value. Derren Brown pulled in a huge crowd with his keynote talk about ‘Rethinking the pursuit of happiness: How to knock down the blockers to wellbeing, growth and reinvention’ with many flowing out of the theatre to hear. Zero trust and cyber security were also very hot topics – quite rightly with the increase almost on a daily basis of businesses being hit with breaches.

CDW Rob Sims discussed how organisations can leverage their data to the maximum and make IT investments that provide real value for customers and a competitive advantage with the alignment of technology with business goals – good to hear IT being taken seriously as an enabler. This example underscores how tech solutions and collaborative innovation can drive significant advancements across sectors.

A day in the life of an IT team

Great panel discussion with Matalan’s Natasha Barker, Lloyds Banking Group Carol Morris, Dan Westley from Oracle and Rob Maythorne from British Gymnastics, addressing the challenge of what does it take to get Board buy-in on shared responsibility for IT initiatives and budget support and whether long term planning is a thing of the past for a more agile risk-averse 12-month approach. All very interesting and crucial if the UK is going to have a strong presence in the future tech world.

Watch Our DTX Roundup Video

Future Trends and Recruitment

The trend towards software integrations and digital customer experiences are expected to continue, spreading across various industries. The demand for skilled transformation professionals, particularly in IT, is rising and the gap is widening to find the right people with the right skills. And if you can’t find the right people with the right skills, reach out and have a chat with us.

Stay updated with the latest IT and transformation trends by following our LinkedIn.