Confluent: The Data Problem with C-Suite Decision Making

Data streaming technology is emerging as a critical solution for businesses seeking to transform outdated batch processing methods and enable instant data-driven decision making.

In today's hyperconnected business environment, the gap between data collection and actionable insights is a critical challenge threatening organisational effectiveness.

After surveying 200 C-level executives, Confluent reports on a startling reality: that the very information meant to drive strategic decision-making is often obsolete before it reaches the C-suite, creating a dangerous disconnect between real-world events and executive response.

As organisations invest heavily in data collection and analytics capabilities, the revelation that more than half of C-suite executives are working with outdated information raises fundamental questions about the return on these investments.

The problem is also exacerbated by the accelerating pace of business decision-making, with 83% of executives reporting increased pressure to make faster strategic choices over the past three years.

The implications of this data delay extend far beyond mere inefficiency.
With 51% of leaders admitting to decision regret due to insufficient real-time data access, the study unmasks a systemic vulnerability in how organisations process and deliver critical information to their decision-makers.

This challenge is particularly acute in an era where market conditions, customer preferences and competitive landscapes can shift dramatically in minutes.

Confluent’s findings illuminate a growing recognition among business leaders that traditional batch processing methods are increasingly inadequate for modern business demands.

The data delay dilemma

Business leaders recognise real-time data streaming as crucial for survival, with 77% investing in technologies to bridge the gap between data potential and strategic decision-making.

The study found that more than half (52%) of C-suite executives believe that the data they receive is already outdated by the time it reaches them.

This delay in information flow is causing a ripple effect throughout organisations, with 51% of leaders admitting to regretting decisions made without sufficient data.

Richard Timperlake, SVP of EMEA at Confluent, highlights the gravity of the situation: "Today's businesses have invested a huge amount of time and money to collect customer data.

“But is any of this investment worthwhile when so much of that data is out of date before it reaches the people who really need it?"

The research also indicates that the pace of C-level decision-making has accelerated over the past three years, with 83% of surveyed executives noting an increase in the speed at which they need to make choices.

This acceleration is putting additional pressure on organisations to streamline their data processes and deliver insights more rapidly.

The push for real-time solutions

In response to these challenges, businesses are increasingly turning to data streaming technologies as a solution.

Data streaming refers to the continuous flow of data from various sources, allowing for real-time analysis and decision-making.

This approach contrasts with traditional batch processing, where data is collected and processed in large chunks at set intervals.

Confluent found that over three-quarters (77%) of businesses surveyed are already investing in data streaming to enhance their strategic planning capabilities.

Furthermore, an overwhelming 96% believe that real-time data streaming will play a significant role in their strategy development for the coming year.

This shift towards real-time data processing is not just about improving decision-making speed; it's also about boosting leadership confidence.

The research found that 89% of C-suite executives would feel more assured in their choices if they had access to more up-to-the-minute information.

Bridging the gap between IT and business strategy

The adoption of data streaming technologies represents a convergence of IT infrastructure and business strategy.

As organisations recognise the value of real-time data, IT teams are being called upon to implement systems that can deliver this capability.

However, the transition is not without its challenges.

The study indicates that 43% of leaders feel their senior team is often too far removed from the data to make impactful decisions.

This disconnect highlights the need for better integration between IT systems and business processes, as well as improved data literacy across all levels of an organisation.

"While it may sound like a niche or technical issue, the reality is that an overreliance on batch processing is holding UK businesses back," Timperlake concludes.

"This isn't just about the IT team, it's about ensuring people can make the best decisions across the entire organisation.

Data streaming makes that possible, and it's great to see so many business leaders pushing for its adoption as a key part of their technology investment strategies".

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