BARC Releases “Data, BI and Analytics Trend Monitor 2025”: Data Security and Quality Lead Global Priorities
Würzburg, Germany, November 2024 – The Business Application Research Center (BARC) has published its latest Data, BI and Analytics Trend Monitor 2025 , the largest global survey of data, business intelligence (BI) and analytics trends. With responses from 1,795 data professionals across industries and regions, the report highlights the priorities and challenges organizations face in navigating an increasingly data-driven world.
Data Security Tops the Agenda, Followed by Data Quality Management
In 2025, data security and privacy remains the leading trend globally, reflecting an ongoing focus on protecting sensitive information and meeting stricter regulatory standards. Data quality management continues to rank as the second most critical priority, underlining its enduring importance as a cornerstone for accurate insights and reliable decision-making.
While emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are gaining traction, the survey reveals a strong emphasis on foundational trends. Data governance holds steady in fourth place, as organizations strive to implement frameworks for managing complex data environments while ensuring compliance and ethical use.
“Every business is now a data business, but being data-driven requires more than just technology,” said Dr. Carsten Bange, founder and CEO of BARC. “Our Trend Monitor 2025 shows that while AI and automation are transforming industries, the foundation of success lies in robust data practices like security, quality and governance, along with a strong data culture. Organizations that balance these fundamentals with emerging technologies will be best positioned to drive innovation and long-term growth.”
Balancing Technology and Culture
Despite the rise of AI-driven solutions, the report underscores the significance of human factors in data success. Trends like data-driven culture and data literacy remain vital, as companies prioritize equipping employees with the skills needed to interpret and act on data effectively. These human-centered elements complement technological advances, creating a balanced approach to data-driven transformation.
Regional and Industry-Specific Insights
The Trend Monitor 2025 also highlights regional and industry-specific differences:
- Regional Variations: European organizations emphasize data governance and quality, reflecting the region’s regulatory environment, while North America and APAC show stronger adoption of AI and machine learning for operational efficiency. South America places top priority on data security and privacy, driven by compliance concerns.
- Industry-Specific Trends: Finance leads in adopting advanced analytics and machine learning for predictive insights, while healthcare prioritizes security due to stringent patient privacy regulations. Meanwhile, retail and the public sector focus on operational BI to enhance real-time decision-making.
The Growing Divide Between Users and Vendors
The report identifies differing priorities between technology vendors and users. Vendors continue to emphasize cloud adoption and self-service analytics, aligning with their innovation-driven strategies. However, users, particularly business and IT professionals, prioritize data security, governance and foundational practices to address practical challenges. Bridging this gap is crucial for aligning innovation with real-world needs.
Best-in-Class Companies Set the Benchmark
Leading organizations demonstrate a balanced approach, excelling in self-service analytics and decision intelligence to foster agility while maintaining robust data governance and quality standards. These companies leverage advanced tools and a strong data culture to stay ahead in competitive landscapes.
