What matters most goes much deeper than the obvious effects. Appreciating these complexities is essential for leaders seeking to maintain advantage.

One key insight is highlighted by our reporting: what worked yesterday rarely succeeds today or ahead.

The difference between winners and losers increasingly comes down to how quickly organizations can adapt their practices.

Over the last 18 months, market leaders adapted significantly in response to emerging technologies. This shift shows the importance of staying competitive in an increasingly dynamic competitive arena.

Key Points

• The shift toward distributed systems represents a significant evolution in the way companies develop applications.
• The scope of advanced technologies requires new skills from development groups.
• Investment in capability building will prove more consequential than chasing trendy technologies.