Introduction: The Evolving IT Landscape and the Need for Bimodal IT
Today, businesses face the challenge of innovating their IT systems in response to rapidly changing market conditions and technological advancements. Traditional IT approaches struggle to keep pace with these changes, limiting the ability to capitalize on new business opportunities. Bimodal IT is a strategy that addresses these issues, enabling organizations to achieve both stability and agility. The core principle involves maximizing IT capabilities by combining predictable and stable system operations (Mode 1) with innovative and experimental development (Mode 2). This approach is essential for accelerating digital transformation and securing a competitive edge.
Core Concepts and Principles: Harmonizing Mode 1 and Mode 2
Bimodal IT consists of two modes: Mode 1 and Mode 2. Mode 1 prioritizes stability and predictability, focusing on the efficient operation and maintenance of existing IT systems. Conversely, Mode 2 emphasizes agility and innovation, concentrating on rapid experimentation and the adoption of new technologies and ideas. These two modes are complementary, and organizations should select the appropriate mode based on the specific situation to execute their IT strategy.
Mode 1: Stable IT Operations
Mode 1 follows traditional IT operational practices, aiming for the stable operation and maintenance of core business systems. It adheres strictly to processes such as change management, risk management, and quality management, ensuring predictable outcomes. Mode 1 plays a crucial role in enhancing cost efficiency and maintaining business continuity.
Mode 2: Agile-Based Innovation
Mode 2 is based on agile development methodologies and DevOps culture, developing innovative services through rapid prototyping and experimentation. It reacts sensitively to market changes and quickly incorporates user feedback to improve products. Mode 2 is essential for creating new business opportunities and securing a competitive advantage.
Latest Trends and Changes: Growth of the Identity Management Solution Market
According to recent reports, the bimodal identity management solution market is expected to grow from $1.9 billion in 2025 to $12.16 billion in 2035. This growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of biometric authentication technologies (fingerprint, facial recognition) and the rising importance of cybersecurity. Furthermore, as cybersecurity regulations become stricter, security-conscious development (Legal Left) is becoming increasingly important in DevOps environments. In response to these changes, companies must pursue security and innovation simultaneously through bimodal IT strategies.
Practical Application: The Case of ABN AMRO Bank
ABN AMRO Bank is a prime example of successful bimodal IT implementation. The bank handles its existing development platform (Mode 1), which drives predictable record systems, and its innovative development platform (Mode 2) with Microsoft and IBM solutions. Developers are creating practical application cases through collaboration, such as developing functions based on web page mockups from graphic designers. This approach enables the bank to provide stable services while rapidly launching new digital services.
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💡 Technical Insight
Precautions When Introducing Technology: When implementing bimodal IT, it is crucial to maintain a balance between Mode 1 and Mode 2. A clear understanding of the goals and characteristics of each mode is necessary, and organizational culture and processes should be adjusted accordingly. Additionally, establish a system for security and regulatory compliance, and ensure system stability through continuous monitoring and improvement.
Outlook for the Next 3-5 Years: Bimodal IT will become increasingly important with the widespread adoption of AI. AI technology can be applied to Mode 2 to develop new services, while AI-based automated operations can be introduced in Mode 1 to increase efficiency. Furthermore, combining with cloud computing technology can create a more flexible and scalable IT environment.
Conclusion: Bimodal IT, a Core Strategy for Digital Transformation
Bimodal IT is a core strategy that helps companies secure both stability and agility, leading to successful digital transformation. By balancing Mode 1 and Mode 2, organizations can efficiently operate existing IT systems while rapidly experimenting with and adopting new technologies and ideas. In particular, the importance of Bimodal IT is expected to grow further with the increasing adoption of AI and the rising importance of cybersecurity. Companies should create business value and secure a competitive advantage through bimodal IT strategies. This is a critical decision for sustainable growth.