With the ever-changing business landscape, characterized by significant shifts—from climate change and cybersecurity threats to economic uncertainties—the interconnection between sustainability and resilience in IT strategy has never been more vital.

A robust IT strategy allows companies to adapt quickly to changing conditions and continue operations despite disruptions. It not only ensures uninterrupted services for customers but also helps businesses maintain their competitive edge.

In this article, we'll delve into the importance of a sustainable and resilient IT strategy in today's world.

The Importance of a Resilient IT Strategy for Enterprises

Sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns; it also includes economic and social aspects. A company's ability to withstand disruptions without compromising its operations or financial stability is crucial to sustainability.

Today, having a sustainable and resilient IT strategy is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

According to the 2023 World Risk Report, a study by Bündnis Entwicklung Hilft, which assesses and estimates a country's disaster risk, the Philippines is ranked with the highest overall natural disaster risk.

On the other hand, according to the Global Data Breach statistics published by cybersecurity firm Surfshark, the Philippines has ranked 17th globally and 5th in Asia in terms of data breaches since 2004. Experts estimate that hackers have compromised 124 million accounts, making it the second-highest count in Southeast Asia.

Furthermore, these hackers target email addresses and have compromised them nearly three times. They use these accounts for identity theft, extortion, and other forms of cybercrime.

In the same report, Surfshark also noted a substantial increase of 134% in the breach rate in the Philippines during Q4 of 2023.

With the high likelihood of encountering disruptions due to natural disasters, economic instability, or cybersecurity threats, companies must have a robust IT infrastructure to ensure business continuity.

During the recent G Summit 2023 with the theme Phase: Forward, hosted at the Manila Marriott Hotel, author and entrepreneur Josiah Go made a significant statement.

"[In our collective journey to 'Phase: Forward'], it's imperative for businesses to harness the right technology and solutions that bolster the core functions of our organizations and future-proof our businesses to avoid strategic drift. True agility isn't just about quick shifts. It's about how businesses can be revamped, embracing innovation, and realizing the immense benefits that come from experimenting with innovative business models,"

The Pillars of Sustainable IT: Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Connectivity

A solid IT infrastructure is what drives a sustainable and resilient IT strategy. It's the bedrock upon which an enterprise can build its risk mitigation and continuity plans. A forward-thinking practice that enterprises can adopt is to leverage the power of cloud computing, robust cybersecurity measures, and strong connectivity.

Cloud

The rise of cloud computing has revolutionized how businesses operate. It's a key enabler for digital transformation because it offers the agility and scalability needed for enterprises to adapt quickly to changing market conditions. Take AC Health's comprehensive digital ecosystem, for example. They offer Filipinos high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible healthcare. Patients in need can receive immediate care from the company's cloud-based platforms, AIDE for home healthcare services, and MedGrocer for medicine delivery. AC Health also partnered with Globe's 917 Ventures to create HealthNow, a free all-in-one health app connecting patients to doctors and healthcare services anytime, anywhere.

According to CEO Carlo Malana of ST Telemedia Globe Data Centers (STT GDC) Philippines, the data center arm of Globe Telecom Inc., the rise in the adoption of cloud technology created a massive demand for data centers in the Philippines. The findings align with the survey conducted by Alibaba Cloud, projecting that 85% of businesses in the Philippines will complete their transition to the cloud by next year.

With cloud services, companies can quickly expand or reduce their IT resources, optimize costs, and support remote work capabilities.

Cybersecurity

With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, cybersecurity has become a critical pillar of resilient IT. A successful cyber attack can cause significant disruptions, hamper operations, and damage a company's reputation and finances.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) reported that cybercrime-related incidents in the country increased by 400% in 2023 compared to 2022. Additionally, a report released by Palo Alto Networks showed that 1 out of 4 companies in the Philippines are exposed to disruptive attacks. Most of these attacks came in different forms, such as:

• Malware - 66%
• Phishing and spear-phishing attempts - 63%
• Password theft - 56%

In another survey conducted by Fortinet, ransomware incidents in the Philippines witnessed a significant rise in frequency and intensity in 2023. Rashish Pandey, Vice President of Marketing for Fortinet in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, stated that 56% of the surveyed organizations in the Philippines reported a doubling of ransomware attacks.

Some contributing factors to the surge in cyber attacks include the increase in remote work arrangements, the use of unauthorized applications, the connection to public WiFi networks, and the number of gadgets and devices connected to corporate networks.

A successful attack and data breach can cost companies around ₱55 million or approximately US$1 million in ransom payments to restore system access. However, in certain cases, the attacker may refuse to return or delete the data, even if you comply with their demands for payment.

Hence, enterprises must invest in comprehensive Cybersecurity solutions to protect their data and operations from threats.

Connectivity

A resilient connection is vital for businesses to stay connected with their customers and employees. What’s more crucial is that connectivity is the backbone of all of these digital tools—without reliable connectivity, these transformative solutions won’t work as intended.

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry is poised to see significant growth driven by private and public investment, increased consumer spending, and a growing demand for enhanced connectivity. It is expected to reach US$33.93 billion by 2027.

One market that will contribute to this growth is the Internet of Things (IoT) market, projected at US$6.37 billion this year, driven by the country's increasing focus on smart city initiatives and digital transformation.

Another sector that will drive revenue and connectivity demand is the BPO sector. The Philippine IT-BPM Industry Roadmap 2028, developed by IBPAP, presents a comprehensive five-year vision for the Philippine BPO Market. The roadmap aims to help local outsourcing achieve a revenue of US$59 billion by 2028 by focusing on strategic priorities such as creating job opportunities outside Metro Manila, driving digital transformation, and creating 2.7 million indirect IT-BPM jobs.

Businesses can leverage various Globe Business Connectivity solutions, such as managed services for end-to-end network service or 5G connection, which provides faster data transfer rates, broader coverage, and dependable connectivity.

Nowadays, businesses can leverage different Connectivity solutions, including 5G, which provides faster data transfer rates, broader coverage, and dependable connectivity.

Benefits

A recent survey showed that 9 out of 10 companies in the Philippines will raise their investments in digital solutions to meet the demands of consumers who now prefer to transact online. The shift towards digitalization has increased the importance of having a sustainable and resilient IT strategy more than ever before.

Here are some key benefits that highlight why companies should invest in such a strategy:

• Strategic advantage - Resilience is not merely an operational consideration—it's a potential strategic advantage that ensures a company can absorb stress, recover critical functionality, and thrive in new circumstances.
• Inclusive and sustainable success - A strong focus on business sustainability and resilience can increase a company's societal impact, resulting in a more inclusive and enduring future for all stakeholders.
• Diversified product lines and target markets - Sustainable growth strategies can lead to diversified product lines and target markets, ensuring a resilient and sustainable growth trajectory and financial stability.
• Long-term business sustainability - A solid IT strategy can future-proof businesses and enable them to reduce risks and costs, improve operational efficiency, and adjust to market demands.

Cultivating a Sustainable and Resilient Future

The rapidly evolving digital landscape presents challenges and opportunities for businesses. Embracing cloud computing, strengthening cybersecurity, and ensuring robust connectivity are foundational elements of a resilient enterprise. As organizations invest in these technologies, they strengthen their operational capabilities and position themselves to excel in the competitive global marketplace.

Globe Business takes pride in being more than just a service provider; we're a true partner of every business. We provide businesses with a wide range of cloud, cybersecurity, and connectivity solutions supported by a world-class network, helping them prepare for a resilient future.

Get in touch with your Globe Business Account Manager or contact us today.