JumpCloud today unveiled the results of its Q1 2024 Small to Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) IT Trends Report, titled “State of IT 2024: The Rise of AI, Economic Uncertainty, and Evolving Security Threats”. This report builds upon the previous biannual SME IT Trends Report released by the company in June 2021, providing updated survey data and new insights.
This latest report explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on identity management, security challenges, economic uncertainties, and the increasing reliance on managed service providers (MSPs) in IT operations. JumpCloud conducted this survey of SME IT administrators to gain valuable insights into the daily experiences of IT professionals who manage and secure operations without the resources of large enterprises.
The survey, which included responses from administrators in the US, UK, and India, reveals the rapid influence of AI on identity management and the mixed sentiments of IT professionals towards its implementation. While a majority of respondents are either planning or actively implementing AI initiatives, concerns about security threats and the potential impact on careers are also prevalent.
CEO of JumpCloud, Rajat Bhargava, emphasized the ongoing importance of security in IT operations amidst increasing external threats and regulatory pressures. He highlighted the need for unified, open identity and IT management solutions to enhance security, streamline operations, and reduce administrative burden.
Key findings include:
AI adoption: Optimism and concerns
Most administrators view AI as beneficial for their organizations, with optimism tempered by concerns about security and career implications.
Key AI findings include:
- Organizations embracing AI: Only 13% have no plans for AI initiatives, while 76% believe their organization should invest in AI.
- Optimism about AI: 79% see AI as a positive force, with a majority feeling their organizations are adopting AI at an appropriate pace.
- Concerns about security and career impact: IT teams express concerns about AI outpacing security measures and the potential impact on their jobs.
Uncertainty for IT
SMEs continue to navigate economic uncertainties, with IT teams concerned about the implications for their operations.
Key IT management findings include:
- Layoffs and security budget cuts: 57% of organizations experienced layoffs, and 72% believe that security budget cuts would increase organizational risk.
- Rising costs and compliance requirements: Vendors have increased prices, and compliance regulations have expanded, impacting IT environments.
- Shift in device environments: Windows usage is decreasing, while macOS and Linux usage is increasing, requiring IT flexibility.
Security challenges persist as admins adjust their response
Security remains a top concern for IT teams, leading to adaptations in response to evolving threats.
Key security findings include:
- Security as a primary challenge: 56% of IT admins cite security as their biggest challenge, followed by new service rollouts and increased work burden.
- Biometrics and password-based systems: Adoption of biometrics is increasing, while password-based systems remain prevalent despite the cumbersome experience.
- Top security threats: Network attacks, software vulnerabilities, and ransomware are the most significant security concerns for IT admins.
MSPs play major role in IT operations
MSPs are essential in SME IT operations, offering a range of services to manage IT environments.
Key MSP findings include:
- MSPs managing IT environments: 42% of organizations fully rely on MSPs for IT management, a significant increase from previous years.
- Functions provided by MSPs: System security, cloud storage, and system monitoring are among the top services offered by MSPs.
- Benefits of MSPs: SMEs appreciate MSPs for their expertise in latest technologies, user experience enhancement, and cost-effectiveness.
Survey Methodology:
The survey included 1,213 SME IT decision-makers from the UK, US, and India, representing organizations with up to 2,500 employees. Conducted by Propeller Insights, the survey took place from November 14, 2023, to November 27, 2023.
The complete findings of the JumpCloud Q1 2024 SME IT Trends Report can be accessed here.
(Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by JumpCloud)
