Info-Tech Research Group has issued a new report that details proactive strategies for IT leaders to optimize costs amid rising expenses caused by changing tariff policies. The research offers practical advice to help IT departments handle financial risks, maintain a stable supply chain, and optimize IT spending in light of evolving trade regulations.

TORONTO, March 7, 2025 – With tariff policies in constant flux, impacting goods from major trade partners, organizations must be ready for increasing IT costs and potential supply chain issues. Info-Tech Research Group’s latest resource, , gives IT leaders a framework for lessening financial risks and ensuring business continuity in an unstable economic climate.

The report highlights that tariffs on imported goods could affect not only manufacturing but also IT operations, especially concerning hardware and infrastructure investments. Although cloud services aren’t directly subject to tariffs, higher costs for computing hardware and devices used by cloud providers might lead to higher prices for IT services. Organizations are encouraged to proactively plan their finances to overcome possible difficulties.

“IT departments are often not considered when organizations assess the financial risks of tariffs, but they are equally susceptible to higher costs,” says , principal research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “To reduce these risks, IT leaders should carefully evaluate their procurement approaches and proactively plan their budgets. Hardware and infrastructure investments will likely become more expensive, and even cloud services might see price increases indirectly as providers adapt to rising costs.”

Key Considerations for IT Leaders:
Info-Tech’s research emphasizes several key strategies that IT leaders can use to navigate the financial challenges presented by changing tariff policies, including:

• Understanding price vulnerabilities – Assess their vulnerability to price increases, particularly regarding computing hardware, networking equipment, and data storage devices.
• Engaging with finance leadership – It’s essential to have open discussions with CFOs to align IT budgeting with overall corporate cost optimization strategies.
• Identifying cost-cutting opportunities – While cost optimization is preferred over outright budget cuts, IT teams should be ready to identify non-essential expenses that can be reduced.
• Reviewing sourcing alternatives – Diversify technology suppliers and fully understand how tariffs impact the supply chain to help lower financial risks.
• Scrutinizing hardware investments – Evaluate whether accelerating planned hardware and infrastructure investments before tariffs take effect could result in cost savings.
• Monitoring vendor pricing strategies – Understand how major software and cloud providers expect tariffs to affect their costs, which can give IT departments an advantage in contract negotiations.

Tariffs create economic uncertainty, making it vital for IT departments to be proactive in risk management and cost optimization. Beyond short-term cost-cutting, IT leaders are advised to focus on long-term resilience by strengthening relationships with suppliers, negotiating flexible contracts, and investing in scalable infrastructure that is future-proof.

By using Info-Tech’s research insights and advisory services, organizations can create clear strategies to minimize financial disruptions and maintain operational efficiency despite changing global trade policies.

For exclusive commentary from Info-Tech’s experts, including Jennifer Perrier, and access to the resource, please contact .

About Info-Tech Research Group
is a leading research and advisory firm, serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company delivers unbiased research and advisory services to help leaders make well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has worked closely with teams, providing them with actionable tools and analyst guidance to ensure they achieve measurable results.

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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

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