Info-Tech LIVE 2025 Day 1 Highlights: Key Insights on IT Trends and AI
Day 1 of Info-Tech LIVE 2025 introduced key insights into Exponential IT, AI strategies, and leadership amidst uncertainty with major takeaways from leaders in the industry. Topics included transforming the role of IT leaders, the rise of agentic AI, and enhancing organizational budget management.
The curtain rose on Info-Tech LIVE 2025 in Las Vegas, on June 11, marking day one filled with crucial discussions about Exponential IT, AI advancements and other hot IT trends. Hosted at the Bellagio, this much-anticipated annual gathering has drawn thousands of IT executives ranging from CIOs to CISOs. Experts shared their invaluable insights throughout the day, laying down a roadmap for tech leaders to navigate today’s whirlwind landscape.
Opening the conference was Dr. Tom Zehren, CEO of Info-Tech Research Group, who set the tone for the event by highlighting the merging of technology acceleration and global uncertainty, which recently hit a staggering 481% spike. He urged the audience to embrace this moment as IT leaders, evolving into what he dubbed “Enterprise Technology Officers” (ETOs). Transformation within organizations, including humanizing AI’s role by becoming agents of change, was a focal point of his keynote, which also introduced the Research Center aimed at enhancing IT capabilities.
Next up was Aaron Shum, VP of Research & Advisory at Info-Tech, who discussed the practicalities of advancing IT process maturity through Exponential IT. With a push to secure exponential outcomes, he stressed the need for IT teams to aim for more than just operational prowess. Shum mapped out five transformation milestones, underscoring real-world benefits seen across sectors like manufacturing and education through AI-driven automation and agile methods, while warning of the organizational inertia that often stifles innovation.
Malcolm Gladwell, a renowned author, offered a refreshing take on leadership against a backdrop of uncertainty. He advised leaders to cultivate curiosity and remain comfortable with not having all the answers. By exploring the unconventional and fostering an environment where teams are free to experiment, he contended that innovation naturally surfaces. His message resonated—leadership is as much about being open to unexpected insights as it is about decisiveness.
The discussion then shifted to the realm of AI agents, as Robert Garmaise and Martin Bufi unpacked the evolution of these powerful systems. They explained how today’s AI agents can autonomously execute complete tasks beyond the traditional scope of mere chatbots. However, they cautioned against falling for the “one-click agent” myth and highlighted the importance of a structured approach to succeed in deploying such sophisticated technologies. Members of the audience were enlightened on the potential pitfalls they must steer clear from during implementation.
Jack Hakimian, Senior VP of Research & Development, wrapped up the day by addressing the vital nature of IT Financial Management in today’s tech landscape. He underscored how essential it is for CIOs to treat IT not just as a cost center but as a core asset driving value creation. By tackling the challenges around budgeting and ROI, Hakimian provided insights and strategies to help IT leaders shift their organizations’ perceptions and increase fiscal agility.
As the conference headed into Day 2, attendees buzzed about upcoming sessions centered on AI disruption and evolving leadership tactics in response to the fast-paced digital era. Expert speakers such as John Rossman and Zack Kass were lined up to share their expertise. With so much momentum built, the eagerness to discover what’s next in IT continues to grow.
For further information on the conference and access to media resources, reach out to [email protected]. Also, a full collection of IT and software insights can be accessed through Info-Tech Research Group’s platform.
In summary, the first day of Info-Tech LIVE 2025 highlighted key trends and insights into the rapidly changing IT landscape. From Dr. Zehren’s call for IT leaders to step up as ETOs to Gladwell’s reflection on fostering innovation through curiosity, the sessions offered a wealth of actionable strategies. As companies embrace the rise of AI agents and prioritize IT financial management, the path forward seems as thrilling as it is complex—setting the stage for what’s to come in the next days of the conference.
Original Source: www.prnewswire.com
