Data+AI - Wave of Change™

The Data & AI Wave of Change ANZ (March 2025) report presents insights from a survey of 100 Australian CAIOs, CIOs, and data leaders. Conducted by Factor, the report explores how technology decision-makers are approaching AI and data strategy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. It highlights the critical role of AI/ML in driving productivity, compliance, and business growth, while also examining the barriers organisations face in achieving true data maturity. With a strong emphasis on integration challenges, talent shortages, and infrastructure constraints, the report offers a comprehensive view of current investment priorities and actionable strategies for success in the AI-driven era.

Key Findings:

• Efficiency, productivity, and compliance are the top business priorities for tech leaders. Over 60% of respondents are focused on improving operational effectiveness, with nearly as many prioritising risk and compliance. This signals a dual imperative: drive value while maintaining governance and control in an increasingly complex digital environment. ‍
• AI/ML is central to IT strategy, with 77% prioritising it in budget planning. Nearly all respondents (96%) say AI/ML is shaping their current strategies, with major investments going into advanced analytics, automation, and data optimisation. These technologies are no longer optional - they're essential to staying competitive. ‍
• Barriers to transformation include talent shortages, data silos, and integration complexity. Most organisations still grapple with fragmented systems and insufficient skilled resources, limiting their ability to scale AI initiatives. These operational challenges are delaying digital transformation despite executive ambition. ‍
• Data maturity remains low, with only 17% identifying as data-driven. While many organisations are making strides, most still rely on traditional decision-making or are only beginning to embrace analytics. There’s a major opportunity to embed data-led thinking across all business functions. ‍
• To influence tech decision-makers, vendors must prove business outcomes and reduce complexity. Decision-makers favour partners who can consolidate tools, de-risk investments, and deliver clear ROI. They seek insight-led conversations over sales pitches - and value strategic alignment over features.