Future-proofing through collaboration: Addressing IT challenges in highly regulated industries

Nicola Vass Date published: Apr 24, 24

As we ride the digital era wave, we notice that it does not discriminate against industry or sector. For highly regulated industries like life sciences, the built environment and the public sector, this continuing evolution presents a unique set of IT challenges that require a dynamic and future-ready approach. But what does it take to truly align the rapid pace of technological advancements with the stringent requirements of industry regulations?

Navigating success amidst regulatory storms

While a remarkable number of IT decision-makers — over 90% — have reported that their recent software implementations have been successful, amidst these victories, we present a gentle reminder that the human side of technology brings its own set of challenges. Senior IT professionals, who shape the future of IT landscapes need to grapple with these challenges that threaten to unravel the success of even the most robust IT systems.

The dichotomy of user behavior and IT compliance

The research reveals an intriguing contradiction; senior figures tend to bend IT rules frequently. This behavioral trend can severely jeopardize data security and compliance frameworks that are the backbone of regulated industries. According to Ideagen's findings, the grapple with user behavior warrants a more nuanced look into this so-called success of IT implementations.

"End-user compliance is often where IT strategies show their cracks," states Stuart Rowe, SVP Collaboration at Ideagen. "The balance between technology, rule adherence and training is a delicate one. It's pivotal for senior IT professionals to foster environments where software capabilities are fully harnessed while preserving regulatory compliance."

Data storage and security: Top of mind concerns

Approximately three-quarters of IT leaders express pronounced concerns with data storage and security — a testament to the criticality of data governance in IT strategies. Variability in data management practices increases the challenge of safeguarding sensitive information, with end-users wrestling to pinpoint document and data locations. Such inconsistencies call for a re-evaluation of how IT systems can be harmonized to alleviate these data-centric challenges.

Aligning collaboration tools with workplace dynamics

The Ideagen research report also highlights a disparity in perceptions between senior IT leaders and junior employees regarding the effectiveness of collaboration tools. Despite leadership's preference for existing collaborative technologies, an evident dissatisfaction filters through the ranks of mid-level managers. Yet, the report findings show that there is a hesitance to pursue changes to these tools.

A call to action for IT leaders

Our research extends beyond statistical findings. It is a narrative that insists that organizations thoroughly consider the ramifications of IT implementations. For senior IT professionals, it underscores the need to:

• Realign IT strategies with end-user behaviors while uplifting compliance protocols
• Address training gaps - particularly among older employees to maximize software potential
• Tighten data storage and security to defend against internal inconsistencies and external threats
• Evaluate collaboration tools through the lens of workplace satisfaction across every level of your organization

By focusing on these important areas, we can future-proof our industries against the unrelenting advancement of technology.

For IT decision-makers in highly regulated industries, this comprehensive research report is ready to arm you with the in-depth knowledge required to navigate the intricate world of IT implementations and evidence in your business cases to C-Suite.

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