"Top leadership does not need to master technology. What is important is to understand the strategic potential"

The rapid pace of digital innovation is revealing a gap between business leaders and technology executives, with many CIOs feeling misunderstood by their management. A recent report indicates that aligning technology strategy with corporate goals has become a top priority, surpassing cybersecurity concerns. This disconnect is particularly pronounced in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), where leadership's understanding of digital transformation can significantly impact decision-making and investment strategies. While many organizations are seeing positive returns from AI projects, there is a growing concern about over-investment without clear strategies. Additionally, the report highlights a contradiction in prioritizing digital sovereignty while increasing reliance on external services due to talent shortages in Portugal's tech sector. The future for Portugal lies in evolving from merely supplying talent to becoming a center for innovation and strategic decision-making.