Section 1 The process optimization imperative IT leaders recognize the power of processes as a lever for value, with 88% saying process optimization can deliver bottom, top, and even green-line value at the same time. To better understand their priorities, we asked the 300 IT leaders who took part in the survey to identify the top 昀椀ve factors that will drive their need to optimize processes in the coming year. There’s a clear winner. Factors driving process optimization Interest in harnessing emerging technologies (AI) ESG demands IT 81% 62% All functions 70% 53% Cost reduction Complying with legislation or regulation 67% 61% 69% 64% Competitive pressure in our sector Supply chain disruptions 63% 52% 64% 57% Changing customer expectations Macroeconomic pressures 62% 48% 64% 57% Business leaders across IT, supply chain, 昀椀nance, and process and operations share a consensus on the main factors driving process optimization. But the extent to which IT leaders recognize the importance of optimizing processes to harness emerging technologies like AI is striking, with 81% placing it in their top 昀椀ve factors, compared with just 70% in the cross-functional survey. Keeping costs under control is their second process optimization priority, while responding positively to continually shifting circumstances (such as competitive pressures, changing customer expectations, and ESG demands) comes next. Let’s take a closer look at these three opportunities. The Process Era is Here: IT Edition 4