The opening day of Info-Tech LIVE 2025 in Las Vegas delivered powerful insights and actionable strategies for IT leaders. As experts unpacked topics like Exponential IT, agentic AI, and leadership during uncertainty, attendees gained a clear roadmap for thriving in a rapidly changing digital world. Here’s what you need to know from Day 1.
Day 1 at Info-Tech LIVE 2025 Unveils Exponential IT Insights
Headlining the event, Dr. Tom Zehren, CEO of Info-Tech Research Group, called for a transformative shift in IT leadership. He addressed the rising global uncertainty and urged IT professionals to embrace their role as Enterprise Technology Officers. Zehren introduced a six-step framework for IT transformation, focusing on:
- Leading organization-wide, not just within IT
- Funding innovation by reducing costs
- Pursuing IT excellence through new playbooks
- Building an adaptive IT workforce
- Accelerating AI transformation
- Staying agile and ready to pivot
Aaron Shum, VP of Research & Advisory, highlighted advances in IT process improvement. He revealed how Generative AI and automation are empowering businesses across industries to achieve exponential outcomes, provided organizations embrace purpose-built solutions and overcome internal resistance.
Leading Through Uncertainty: AI, Innovation, and IT Excellence
Renowned author Malcolm Gladwell captivated the audience with his take on leadership during uncertain times. He emphasized the value of curiosity, experimentation, and embracing uncertainty as core elements for breakthrough innovation. Rather than always seeking certainty, leaders should encourage creative problem-solving and allow teams to safely challenge norms.
Further strengthening the AI discourse, Rob Garmaise and Martin Bufi discussed the ascent of AI agents. They clarified that modern AI agents go beyond chatbots, executing complex workflows autonomously. However, success hinges on disciplined design, robust evaluation, and alignment with organizational goals. Key pitfalls include poor integration, limited scalability, and inadequate task planning.
Key Takeaways and What’s Next at Info-Tech LIVE 2025
Jack Hakimian‘s presentation on IT Financial Management underscored the importance of clear budgeting and measuring IT’s value. He recommended embracing ML-enabled tools, rolling forecasts, and integrated budgeting to drive innovation and better link IT spending to business impact. His message was clear: every organization is now a tech organization, so IT must operate with a CEO’s mindset.
With the first day setting an ambitious tone, attendees are eager for the upcoming sessions. Day 2 promises more discussions with industry thought leaders on evolving IT leadership, AI disruption, and digital transformation strategies.
In summary, Info-Tech LIVE 2025 delivered key strategies for IT leaders to navigate uncertainty, harness exponential technology, and lead meaningful innovation. As the conference unfolds, it remains a crucial venue for organizations seeking to adapt, excel, and lead in the digital era.
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