According to Gartner's latest forecast, global IT spending is expected to rise by 9,3% in 2025 , reaching a total of $5,74 trillion . This growth is primarily driven by technological innovations such as Generative AI (GenAI) , the increase in server sales, and the shift towards cloud-based solutions.
It is particularly striking that software spending is expected to increase by as much as 14,2% . This suggests that companies must not only adapt to technological changes but also re-evaluate their software strategy to take full advantage of the new opportunities these technologies offer.
Gartner on the Future of IT Spending
Gartner forecasts a significant increase in IT spending in 2025, with a focus on two key sectors. Generative AI (GenAI) is expected to account for a large share of the rising spending. Gartner analyst John-David Lovelock expects technology companies and CIOs to further expand their investment in GenAI in 2025, building upon their earlier proof-of-concept work. While the focus in recent years has primarily been on experimentation, companies will allocate larger budgets for large-scale deployments of this technology in 2025. This will cause a substantial rise in spending in this sector, despite a slight decrease in short-term expectations for GenAI capabilities.
In addition, Gartner forecasts exponential growth in server sales , which will have a significant impact on global IT spending. Demand for server capacity continues to increase, driven in part by the expansion of data center infrastructure and the ongoing shift toward cloud-based solutions. Gartner expects data center spending to reach a record high of $257 billion in 2025. This rise in server sales provides a major driver for broader IT spending growth, as more and more companies modernize their infrastructure to meet the demands of digital transformation and cloud migration.
Why These Trends Matter for Software Spending
The shift towards cloud-based solutions and the broader deployment of emerging technologies such as Generative AI lay a solid foundation for a growing demand for software. Companies increasingly need tools that are not only scalable but also flexible enough to respond quickly to changing market conditions. This means that software plays an increasingly crucial role in supporting both daily operations and complex processes, such as the use of GenAI.
These developments mean that software is expected to remain one of the fastest growing segments of IT spending. Organizations will invest more in software solutions that help them navigate this rapidly changing, technology-driven environment. This makes it all the more important to think carefully about managing software licenses and costs so that companies can maximize the value of their investments.
Prepare your business for 2025
With the expected increase in software spending, it is essential to be prepared. By taking a strategic approach to software licensing and contract management, you can not only control costs but also take advantage of the rapidly changing IT landscape. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your licensing options and needs and ensure your business is ready for the future.
Contact us today to optimize your software and cloud investments. We offer transparent insights into licensing options, enabling you to make informed choices and enter into contracts based on your actual needs. This allows you to get the most out of your software investments, at the best possible price and terms.