Why ‘Unsexy’ IT Strategies will lead the way in 2025

• Long-term sustainability over instant fixes: Focus on maintaining core systems and avoiding "silver bullet" solutions like cloud migrations without a clear business case.
• Responsible experimentation for growth: Testing, learning from failures, and understanding problems deeply is crucial for informed, scalable technology solutions.
• Treat data as an asset: Effective data governance is critical in 2025; businesses must treat data with care to ensure quality, compliance, and value generation

The Case for Sustainable IT Strategies in 2025: A Step-by-Step Approach

As we enter 2025, it’s crucial for businesses to shift their focus from short-term, flashy technology fixes to long-term, sustainable IT solutions. Dariel Software’s Office of the CTO (OCTO) team offers a roadmap to achieving this balance. Here are the key points to consider for crafting an IT strategy that stands the test of time.

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1. Master the Basics: Avoid the Temptation of Quick Fixes

In 2024, one of the key lessons learned was the importance of investing in core systems. Dirk Ras, Architect at Dariel, highlights that underinvestment in foundational technology leads to costly consequences. Many businesses, having neglected proper system maintenance, now face the pressure of racing against end-of-life deadlines. Rather than chasing new technologies like AI or cloud migrations, companies should first ensure their existing systems are up to date and scalable.

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2. The Dangers of 'Silver Bullet' Solutions

The allure of "silver bullet" solutions—such as cloud migrations or blockchain implementations—often distracts from the real, underlying problems. Jason Evans, Software Architect at Dariel, warns that small successes can lead to overconfidence, with businesses assuming that one successful cloud migration means their entire infrastructure needs to follow suit.

In reality, not every problem requires a complex solution. Before jumping into trendy tech, businesses must fully understand their constraints and objectives. Every technology decision should be backed by a clear business case.

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3. Responsible Experimentation: Fail Fast, Learn Faster

When it comes to experimenting with new technologies, businesses often falter by focusing too much on delivering perfect solutions instead of learning from iterative tests. Jacques Burger, Senior Business Analyst at Dariel, emphasizes that the goal of experimentation is not to deliver polished products but to gain valuable insights.

This approach requires businesses to stay in the “problem space” longer—getting comfortable with testing and discarding what doesn’t work. Responsible experimentation ensures that decisions are based on informed data, leading to scalable and sustainable solutions.

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4. Treat Data as an Asset, Not Just a Resource

As data privacy regulations tighten globally, businesses must begin treating data as a valuable asset. Ras notes that data quality improves when it’s treated like any other business asset: maintained, protected, and leveraged for value. Poor data governance can lead to serious compliance risks, particularly for smaller businesses that struggle with best practices. In 2025, a proactive approach to data governance will be critical, requiring companies to invest in expertise to navigate increasingly complex privacy laws.

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5. Tailor Solutions to Your Unique Context

Lastly, businesses must resist the urge to compare themselves to global tech giants like Uber or Facebook. Ras advises that South African companies, in particular, should focus on creating solutions tailored to their specific constraints and capacities.

Digital transformation is not about emulating tech behemoths but about developing a strong engineering culture and integrating technology into an organization’s DNA. As Yan points out, "2025 isn’t about chasing the next big thing; it’s about getting your house in order and creating value where it matters most."

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Conclusion

For businesses preparing for 2025, the key is to prioritise sustainability over speed. This means investing in core systems, avoiding quick-fix technologies, experimenting responsibly, treating data as an asset, and tailoring solutions to fit your unique needs. A stable, long-term approach will provide the foundation for success in the years ahead.

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