Futurice, a leading IT service company, anticipates a shift in the industry as the progress of digitalization continues to thrive. Osmo Haapaniemi, the company’s new Country Manager for Finland, believes that the year 2024 will mark the beginning of significant growth. While last year was challenging in terms of investment decisions, Haapaniemi sees a positive turnaround as the situation improves.
Futurice faces challenges in the German and UK markets, where large customers have implemented extensive savings programs and are more cautious with their investments. Despite these obstacles, Haapaniemi identifies consulting services for corporate strategy work and maintenance services as drivers of growth for the company. With an increasing number of companies accumulating digital capabilities, the need for maintenance and further development arises. In addition, customer problems have become more complex, requiring a multidisciplinary approach.
External assistance for strategy development is also in demand. Haapaniemi emphasizes the importance of connecting digital business to the customer’s strategy and utilizing data and artificial intelligence in decision-making. However, he points out that the majority of change benefits come from modifications in operating models supported by digital solutions, rather than solely relying on tools.
Although there isn’t yet a recovery in developing new digital services, the progress of digitalization remains uninterrupted. Haapaniemi explains that the focus is on building prerequisites for future economic growth. Artificial intelligence plays a significant role in this, offering promising solutions to identified problems. By conducting AI pilots, Futurice has already achieved remarkable results, such as increasing an organization’s ability to handle customer feedback tenfold.
The transition in leadership at Futurice is noteworthy, as Haapaniemi takes over from Riku Valtasola, who served as the Country Manager for five years. This job rotation allows for fresh perspectives and the utilization of strengths on an international scale. It aligns with Futurice’s corporate culture, which strongly emphasizes career development and personal growth.
As the IT sector experiences a shift, Futurice remains at the forefront, driven by its expertise in consulting and maintenance services. The company’s focus on connecting digital solutions to customer strategies, along with the utilization of artificial intelligence, positions it for future success. With Osmo Haapaniemi leading the way, Futurice is poised for growth and continued innovation.
