2026 will prove whether AI checkout is here to stay
This Modern Retail article examines whether AI-powered checkout can move beyond experimentation and become a lasting part of retail operations. It highlights the balance between innovation, trust, and customer experience. Connect with Vaz Global Technology to discuss how AI can support the future of work in customer-facing environments.
According to a Deloitte survey, 65% of CIOs now report directly to CEOs, a significant increase from 41% a decade ago. This shift indicates a transformation in how technology leadership is perceived within organizations.
CIOs as Strategic Leaders
The research shows that 66% of CIOs who report directly to the CEO believe this positioning enables them to contribute to driving business strategy and results, reflecting their evolving role from technical managers to strategic leaders.
Perception of Tech Departments
The survey reveals a split perception of tech departments, with 52% of respondents viewing them as revenue generators, while 48% see them primarily as service centers. This division highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in driving business growth.

2026 will prove whether AI checkout is here to stay
published by Vaz Global Technology
We are a technology solutions provider with expertise in a wide range of areas, including cloud migrations, database integration, data mining, call center and voice integration software, optimization, data lakes, and AI/machine learning. In addition, we specialize in cyber security and have strategic partnerships with Fortinet, Veeam, and CloudCheckr. Our team of experts is highly experienced in helping organizations migrate from on-premises systems to cloud-based environments, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to operations. We also offer comprehensive database integration and data mining services, enabling our clients to leverage their data for business insights and better decision-making. For call center and voice integration software, we offer Amazon Connect solutions, which enable organizations to streamline their customer service operations and improve customer satisfaction. Our optimization services focus on improving system performance and efficiency, while our data lakes and AI/machine learning services help organizations make the most of their data. We prioritize cyber security and offer comprehensive solutions to help organizations protect their data and systems from threats. Our strategic partnerships with Fortinet, Veeam, and CloudCheckr enable us to offer best-in-class solutions to our clients. In addition, we offer billing as a service to help organizations streamline their billing processes and improve accuracy. We also offer AWS SNS for Amber Alerts and automation for school systems, helping educational institutions stay connected with their students and communities. Finally, we provide event and student services, helping organizations plan and execute successful events while also providing comprehensive support for student needs. With our broad range of capabilities and expertise, we are committed to helping our clients achieve their technology goals and drive business success