I’ve recently had the chance to sit down with Confare to talk about Cloudflight’s outlook on the IT industry in 2025. What will be the key trends, challenges, and opportunities for businesses? Read on to find out.
What are the biggest challenges for IT companies in 2025?
Anton Bayer: Emerging tech like AI and regulations, such as the Supply Chain Act, collide with tight IT budgets. Companies must provide cost-effective, adaptable solutions that are future-proof and scalable, as the pace of innovation won’t slow down. At Cloudflight, we test and apply new technologies internally to better assess risks and accelerate customer projects.
What technologies will shape the market in 2025?
AB: It’s no surprise that GenAI will continue dominating. Many large companies are already exploring PoCs, and smaller ones will follow, using tested solutions. Cloudflight has implemented AI for tasks like automating order processing via phone or email, with impressive results. These advancements will soon be accessible to businesses of all sizes.
How do geopolitical and economic shifts influence strategy?
AB: Challenges like the EU AI Act, economic turbulence, and tight budgets drive a focus on return on investment (ROI). Investments now demand a clear payback within 1–2 years, which limits larger, forward-looking projects. Yet, such innovation is essential, especially with workforce retirements looming in both public and private sectors.
What role does sustainability play in your 2025 strategy?
AB: Sustainability is central. We cut CO₂ emissions with initiatives like providing climate tickets for employees and create tools for circular economies. Our software development prioritizes resource efficiency, and we support young IT talent through events like our Coding Contest. Digital transformation and sustainability are interconnected drivers for the future.
How is demand for cloud solutions and data management changing?
AB: The cloud is now a necessity, but high costs are driving some companies back to on-premises solutions. Businesses need to determine which cloud services provide real value, especially for data-heavy applications like IoT and data platforms. We’ve seen success with tools like Microsoft Fabric and Databricks, building tailored solutions on top of them.
Where are the top IT investment areas for 2025?
AB: Customer and after-sales portals in industrial B2B are critical. Self-service features like 24/7 access to spare parts, machine monitoring, and API integrations are in demand. Success depends on proper usability and customer-driven requirements, which is why Cloudflight always starts with a professional Discovery phase.
What skills will IT teams need in 2025?
AB: Companies need generalists who understand the big picture, adapt quickly to new tech, and excel in methodologies like project management or agile practices. Trends change fast, but methodical expertise paired with practical experience ensures flexibility and success. Cloudflight blends these qualities in teams, creating effective and collaborative partnerships.
How important are partnerships for future success?
AB: Long-term, trust-based partnerships are vital. We ensure solutions go beyond proofs of concept (PoCs) to full production readiness. With technology partners like MedusaJS and major cloud providers, we remain independent and customer-focused. Our philosophy, “partnership means creating independence,” helps clients develop their own expertise.
What’s your advice for IT leaders to ensure success in 2025?
AB: Build strong partnerships rooted in technical expertise. Combine customer-centric innovation with a long-term vision. Stay flexible, leverage AI and cloud smartly for efficiency, and never compromise on quality. These elements together ensure sustainable, lasting success.
This was an excerpt from the full interview. You can find the entire text in German on Confare’s website.