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TD Synnex has released its Fourth Annual Direction of Technology (DoT) Report, identifying artificial intelligence, services, and specialisation as key drivers of IT growth in 2025. Drawing on feedback from more than 1,400 IT solution providers and resellers across 40 countries, the report outlines how partners are adapting to persistent macroeconomic challenges by embracing AI-led transformation, resilient cybersecurity frameworks, and automation-enabled talent strategies.
“As the technology industry navigates extraordinary change, our partners are facing evolving challenges, and TD Synnex is here to help turn those into opportunities,” said Patrick Zammit, CEO of TD Synnex. “This year’s DoT report shows that leadership comes from building resilience in core technologies, while leaning into next-generation technologies, services and specialisation.”
The report introduces a new structure that delivers deeper insights by geographic region, partner type, and technology sector. It also unveils two new metrics—the Net Growth Index and Net Optimism Index—designed to track partner performance and sentiment over time. Both indices use a baseline score of 100, with scores above indicating growth or optimism and scores below reflecting stagnation or pessimism.
Among the six global trends identified, AI is positioned as foundational to market leadership, with nearly 75% of partners viewing it as essential to their future. Use cases such as AI-powered cybersecurity and AI-driven automation are expected to have a significant business impact. Cybersecurity remains a core offering for 80% of partners and is cited as the leading growth driver for endpoint solutions, though concerns persist around AI-driven threats and data breaches.
Specialisation is emerging as a competitive differentiator, with industry expertise ranked as the top attribute customers seek in a partner. Most partners plan to expand support, integration, and managed services in response. Meanwhile, talent shortages are prompting firms to redesign operating models, particularly in areas like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
Despite economic headwinds, 66% of partners report revenue growth, with ISVs and professional services firms leading the way. These groups are noted for blending fast-growing capabilities such as AI and analytics with core offerings, positioning themselves as service-led and future-ready.
“Now in its fourth year, the Direction of Technology report continues to evolve alongside the market it reflects,” said Jill Kermes, Corporate Vice President, Global Corporate Communications and Citizenship at TD Synnex. “Each edition provides new perspectives and practical insights to help our customers navigate complexity and seize opportunity. This year’s findings underscore that the next wave of growth will come from those who are reimagining business models and harnessing AI, services, and specialisation to shape what comes next.”
