CIOs are taking on a larger role in business strategy, with many now regularly reporting to the board on ROI, according to a report from Localis.
The report, based on a survey of 1,000 global chief information officers (CIOs), including more than 300 from the Asia-Pacific region.
Lee Chong-Win, CEO of Logicalis Asia Pacific, said that in 2025, 96% of organisations in APAC are investing in technology to create new revenue streams. CIOs playing a critical role in ensuring these investments drive tangible ROI.
“From leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and optimising cybersecurity investments to integrating sustainability initiatives for commercial advantage, CIOs are now driving business-critical transformation,” said Lee.
The rapid emergence of new technologies is accelerating this shift. The report shows that almost all organisations are exploring how next-generation technologies can specifically support commercial growth.
This trend shows no sign of slowing, with AI (65%), machine learning (ML) capabilities and private 5G (54% each), and Internet of Things (IoT) (50%) initiatives among the most widely adopted emerging technologies over the past 12 months.
Despite these investments, realising value remains a challenge. While 86% of CIOs report growing pressure for technology to demonstrate tangible business impact, many (66%) acknowledge that their next-generation technology investments have yet to deliver anticipated returns.
As the gap between balancing investments and realised value intensifies, CIOs remain optimistic about the potential of these technologies.
Lee Chong-Win said, “The APAC technology market continues to grow, presenting both opportunities and complexities. The vast array of available solutions can lead to inefficiencies, making strategic partnerships essential. CIOs seek trusted advisors who understand their unique business objectives and can help them navigate this landscape effectively.
“Logicalis’s findings also show that CIOs in APAC face greater pressure to deliver quick wins than their global peers, yet they remain highly confident in their ability to balance short-term gains with long-term success,” said Lee.
“They are proving the value of technology as well as redefining its role in shaping the future of business across the region,” he added.
Still, most (86%) APAC CIOs face growing pressure to demonstrate the business impact of their technology investments.
CIOs must continue to navigate business-critical objectives while considering innovations that support future growth.
Despite unprecedented spending on security solutions, 91% experienced cybersecurity incidents in the last 12 months with 53% enduring multiple breaches, raising questions about the effectiveness of security spending.
One area delivering tangible financial results is the integration of environmental technologies.
APAC CIOs are seeing direct financial benefits, with 94% reporting gains and 60% describing the impacts as significant.
Investment in environmental sustainability initiatives continues to grow, with 96% of organisations in APAC prioritising these initiatives over the past 12 months.
While most APAC CIOs are confident that their IT spending is yielding a return, many (91%) believe there is room for improvement.
As challenges around complexity, resources and performance visibility remain, the report highlights the importance of building strong technology partnerships to help CIOs meet this changing landscape, alleviate pressures, and unlock value.
Findings also show that, among APAC CIOs, 96% are investing in technology to create new revenue streams.
Also, 96% are exploring how next-generation technology can support commercial growth and 98% are confident their IT spending is yielding ROI.
Further, 87% report growing pressure within their organisation to ensure ROI from AI.
