Abhishek Mundra – Everest Group https://www.everestgrp.com A leading global research firm Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:38:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.everestgrp.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/favicon-150x150.png Abhishek Mundra – Everest Group https://www.everestgrp.com 32 32 Maximizing Value in Finance Transformations with S/4HANA | Webinar https://www.everestgrp.com/webinars/maximizing-value-in-finance-transformations-with-s4hana-webinar.html Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:17:06 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=119800 Maximizing Value in Finance Transformations 1200x628px Get the presentation

WATCH THE WEBINAR ON-DEMAND With the forthcoming SAP support end deadline of December 2027, as well as the increasing promise of AI-driven technologies, enterprises have been moving rapidly from legacy to cloud solutions. In particular, SAP S/4HANA adoption could prove […]]]>
Maximizing Value in Finance Transformations 1200x628px Get the presentation

WATCH THE WEBINAR ON-DEMAND

With the forthcoming SAP support end deadline of December 2027, as well as the increasing promise of AI-driven technologies, enterprises have been moving rapidly from legacy to cloud solutions. In particular, SAP S/4HANA adoption could prove a game-changer for enterprise finance functions, given its central role in managing and analyzing financial data for informed decision-making.

However, for the implementation of SAP S/4HANA to be successful, there are several key imperatives to understand and follow. Watch Harpreet Makan, Practice Director, and Abhishek Mundra, Practice Director, for an enlightening webinar on driving finance transformation using S/4HANA. The discussion included the evolving role of the CFO in the implementation of transformative tech, as well as the strategic, operational and governance aspects of developing a successful transformation strategy.

Attendees came away with a good understanding of best practices for implementing SAP S/4HANA, and how third-party service providers are reconfiguring their offering to better aid in finance transformations with S/4HANA.

What questions did the webinar answer for the participants?

  • What are the key buyer imperatives for finance transformation?
  • Why should the CFO and the finance organization care about S/4HANA transformation?
  • What are the best practices while undertaking finance transformation with S/4HANA?
  • What role can the CFO and finance organization play to help ensure success of S4 transformation?
  • How to find the right service provider to partner with for your transformation journey?

Who should attend?

  • CFOs
  • IT/BPO strategy heads
  • Finance managers
  • Heads of F&A /outsourcing practices at leading service providers
  • CIOs
  • CTOs
  • SAP practice heads at leading IT service providers
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Retail and CPG Data, Analytics, and AI Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment https://www.everestgrp.com/peak-matrix/retail-and-cpg-data-analytics-and-ai-services.html Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:35:22 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=120997 Retail and CPG Data, Analytics, and AI Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment

Data, Analytics, and AI (DAAI) services are transforming Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods (RCPG) enterprises by enhancing operations and improving customer experiences. Data services integrate and manage data from various sources, ensuring accuracy and security, while centralized data warehousing facilitates […]]]>
Retail and CPG Data, Analytics, and AI Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment

Data, Analytics, and AI (DAAI) services are transforming Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods (RCPG) enterprises by enhancing operations and improving customer experiences. Data services integrate and manage data from various sources, ensuring accuracy and security, while centralized data warehousing facilitates efficient retrieval and analysis. Analytics services provide insights through descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analyses, helping businesses understand past performance, forecast future trends, and optimize decision-making. Customer and supply chain analytics further enable enterprises to tailor marketing strategies and streamline operations. AI services, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, further automate and enhance decision-making processes. These technologies enable personalized marketing, demand forecasting, pricing optimization, and customer sentiment analysis, driving business growth.

  • Retail and CPG Data, Analytics, and AI Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024

    Retail and CPG Data, Analytics, and AI Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment

    What is in this PEAK Matrix® Report

    Implementing these solutions requires a strategic approach and a reliable service partner with strong DAAI capabilities, along with RCPG domain expertise and a robust partner ecosystem. In this report, we assess 27 providers featured on the RCPG DAAI Services PEAK Matrix®. Each provider profile comprehensively describes its service focus, key intellectual property solutions, domain investments, and case studies.

    Scope:

    • Industry: RCPG
    • Geography: global
    • Services: DAAI
    • The assessment is based on Everest Group’s annual RFI process for the calendar year 2024, interactions with leading providers, client reference checks, and an ongoing analysis of the RCPG DAAI services market

    Contents: 

    This report features detailed assessments, including strengths and limitations, of 27 providers that focus on DAAI services in the RCPG industry.

    READ ON

What is the PEAK Matrix®?

The PEAK Matrix® provides an objective, data-driven assessment of service and technology providers based on their overall capability and market impact across different global services markets, classifying them into three categories: Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Top Service Providers

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ERP and CRM Platforms will Drive the Next Wave of Generative AI Adoption | Blog https://www.everestgrp.com/cloud-infrastructure/erp-and-crm-platforms-will-drive-the-next-wave-of-generative-ai-adoption-blog.html Fri, 06 Sep 2024 06:06:12 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=120567 GettyImages 1159559071

The enterprise landscape is on the cusp of a transformative era, with the emergence of gen AI (generative artificial intelligence).   This technology, capable of creating entirely new content, promises to revolutionize countless workflows and redefine enterprise operations.  Generative AI’s integration […]]]>
GettyImages 1159559071

The enterprise landscape is on the cusp of a transformative era, with the emergence of gen AI (generative artificial intelligence) 

This technology, capable of creating entirely new content, promises to revolutionize countless workflows and redefine enterprise operations. 

Generative AI’s integration into platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, Salesforce, and Pega is not merely a trend but a fundamental shift in how enterprises will innovate and operate. 

Reach out to discuss this topic in depth. 

The enterprise perspective 

Enterprises today face a critical decision when considering generative AI adoption: whether to opt for point solutions or a platform-led approach. This decision is crucial as any such investment demands substantial investment.  

While many enterprises initially gravitate towards point solutions, deploying isolated instances of large language models (LLMs) for specific features, this fragmented approach has limitations. Generative AI models are typically trained for broad, personal usage rather than enterprise-specific applications, which can limit their effectiveness in enterprise scenarios. 

On the other hand, platform-embedded solutions such as SAP Joule, Microsoft Copilot, Oracle Digital Assistant, Salesforce Einstein and others, are not only more relevant but also easier to scale adopt. Think of it as having a mini-AI (artificial intelligence) assistant built right into your familiar software, empowering you to leverage its power without needing extensive technical expertise. 

Our recent interactions with enterprises revealed that 70% of enterprises are prioritizing platform-embedded generative AI as a key strategy for digital transformation. This approach not only simplifies AI deployment, but also enhances productivity and operational efficiency, making it a compelling choice for forward-thinking organizations.  

By integrating Gen AI capabilities directly into existing enterprise platforms, enterprises are benefiting from:  

Integrated operational environment – Platform-embedded AI seamlessly integrates into existing business systems (enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM), human capital management (HCM), and others), ensuring consistent AI-driven insights across all functions. This integration reduces disruptions and fosters a cohesive operational environment, in which data flows effortlessly between applications, maximizing the utility of AI insights 

Enhanced data utilization – Embedded AI has access to enterprise-wide data, generating more accurate and holistic insights. It ensures seamless data exchange and integration across applications, making AI insights more valuable and actionable compared to point solutions limited to specific data sets 

Futureproofing innovation – Adopting platform-embedded AI aligns enterprises with the strategic roadmap of leading software providers, ensuring access to the latest AI advancements and innovations 

Higher cost efficiency – Platform-embedded AI leverages existing infrastructure, reducing the need for additional hardware, software, and technical expertise, offering more cost-effective AI capabilities. This consolidation leads to a lower total cost of ownership (TCO), by avoiding the costs associated with deploying and maintaining multiple standalone AI solutions 

Reduced complexity – Embedding generative AI within enterprise platforms simplifies deployment and usage. Unlike traditional AI implementations that require extensive setup, platform-embedded AI integrates into daily-use software, reducing the need for specialized technical expertise, accelerating implementation timelines, and minimizing workflow disruptions 

Despite the enthusiasm, enterprises adopting the platform-embedded gen AI approach should take care of challenges associated such as: 

Enterprise readiness – Integrating Gen AI into existing platforms can be complex and requires significant investment in technology and skills. Enterprises should conduct a thorough assessment of their current infrastructure and capabilities, and consider partnering with experienced AI vendors to streamline the integration process and mitigate risks 

Skill gaps – There is a high shortage of professionals within the data, AI, ERP and CRM sector, with these workers needing the skills to develop and maintain gen AI solutions. Enterprises need to invest in training and development programs to upskill existing employees or can consider hiring new resources and collaborating with educational institutions to build talent 

Ethical and regulatory compliance – Businesses must navigate the ethical implications of AI, such as bias and fairness, to build trust with their users. Establishing a dedicated ethics committee to oversee AI initiatives, performing regular audits and implementing bias detection algorithms are crucial ways to maintain fairness and transparency 

Data security and privacy Platform-embedded AI relies on vast amounts of data, raising concerns about data security and privacy. Enterprises must adopt robust data security measures such as encryption, access controls, and regular security audits and ensure compliance with data protection regulations such as general data protection regulation (GDPR) and California consumer privacy act (CCPA) 

Change management and adoption Ensuring that employees adapt to new AI-driven processes and tools can be difficult. Also, resistance to change and a lack of understanding of AI capabilities can impede successful adoption. Thus, implementing a comprehensive change management strategy that includes clear communication, training programs, and user support remains a must  

Adoption trends and future outlook 

While the adoption of platform-embedded generative AI is gaining momentum across various enterprises, solutions like Joule, Copilot, and Einstein are witnessing increased uptake, driven by their ability to enhance productivity, efficiency, and decision-making.  

Enterprises are now tailoring these AI functionalities to their specific needs, integrating them seamlessly with existing business processes within platforms such as SAP BTP. This customization ensures that AI solutions are closely aligned with unique workflows, improving decision-making and automating routine tasks. 

As businesses grow, the scalable infrastructure provided by platforms supports the expanding adoption of generative AI, allowing for increased data handling and more complex AI models. Future trends indicate even greater collaboration between AI developers and business units, driving innovation and creating new use cases. This will ensure that enterprises remain at the forefront of AI-driven transformation, leveraging advanced analytics and intuitive AI interfaces to maintain a competitive edge in their respective industries. 

By understanding and harnessing the trends within platform landscape, enterprises can position themselves at the forefront of AI-driven transformation, reaping the benefits of enhanced productivity, efficiency, and strategic decision-making.  

If you found this blog interesting, check out our recent blog focusing on What Recent Generative AI Updates And Announcements Signal For Some Industries | Blog – Everest Group (everestgrp.com) 

At Everest Group, we are closely tracking the generative AI evolution in enterprise platforms. To discuss this topic more with our team, please reach out Abhishek Mundra or Vinisha Choudhary.

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Mars’ Acquisition of Kellanova Sparks Significant Opportunities for IT Service Providers | Blog https://www.everestgrp.com/blog/it-services/mars-acquisition-of-kellanova-sparks-significant-opportunities-for-it-service-providers-blog.html Tue, 27 Aug 2024 21:22:29 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=120146 GettyImages 1961127788

Mars’ acquisition of Kellanova could be the biggest acquisition announcement in the retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry in 2024. With a price tag of US$83.50 per share, Mars has paid a substantial sum of US$35.9 billion for one […]]]>
GettyImages 1961127788

Mars’ acquisition of Kellanova could be the biggest acquisition announcement in the retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry in 2024. With a price tag of US$83.50 per share, Mars has paid a substantial sum of US$35.9 billion for one of the largest snacking companies, which generated US$13 billion in revenue just last year. This acquisition positions Mars as a major player in the snacking category in the US, ranking just behind PepsiCo, which owns Frito-Lay. Read on to learn how this affects the CPG market and its IT service providers.

Contact us to discuss the topic further.

Back in October of 2023, Kellogg Company finalized the spin-off of their snacking business as Kellanova, and less than a year later, Kellanova may have found a new home with Mars, an acquisition that will be made at a 33% premium to Kellanova’s unaffected 52-week high as of August 2, 2024.

But how does this acquisition affect the CPG landscape and its IT service sector?

  1. CPG companies are looking to diversify their portfolios

Post-pandemic, the trend of individual snacking has been increasing, with US consumers increasingly substituting traditional meals with various snack options. Hershey’s acquisition of Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels, Mondelēz’s acquisition of Chipita, and Nestlé’s acquisition of The Bountiful Company all reflect CPG companies’ efforts to broaden their range of snacking options for customers.

Mars’ acquisition of Kellanova is another example of this trend. As one of the leaders in the sweet snacking category, Mars now enhances its portfolio with savory snack options by adding billion-dollar brands such as Pringles and Cheez-It.

  1. Investments in data and Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML) will rise along with new sustainability initiatives

Kellanova has listed data, AI, and machine learning as some of their top tech priorities for 2024, which aligns closely with Mars’ tech focus. Recently, Mars, particularly through its Snickers brand, announced a partnership with José Mourinho to pioneer a fully authorized AI clone for unique fan engagement.

Mars has traditionally embraced technology solutions to enhance sustainability in sourcing and manufacturing for their brands. The acquisition of Kellanova opens additional opportunities for Mars to advance its sustainability practices further.

  1. Mars will require substantial consulting and system integration support

Every merger and acquisition is accompanied by substantial investment in post-merger integration and consulting services. A detailed approach is required to integrate the IT infrastructure of the two companies, consolidate technology vendors, and eliminate redundant applications and platforms. The extent to which this integration is needed in the case of Mars-Kellanova is yet to unfold.

Additionally, this presents an opportunity to modernize legacy systems, adopt new IT practices, and implement cutting-edge technologies that enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation.

Kellogg Company has long relied upon a diverse array of technology partners, including SAP, Microsoft, AWS, and Oracle, to support its enterprise applications, data management, and web services. In contrast, Mars has integrated SAP, Microsoft, Salesforce, and E2Open into its technology stack. Although a complete IT infrastructure overhaul for Kellanova is improbable, we can anticipate emerging opportunities for innovative service solutions, particularly in system integration and migration.

Conversely, Mars and Kellanova might choose to maintain their separate IT infrastructures, potentially adopting a tiered IT structure with strategic data bridges to facilitate enterprise-level consolidation and collaboration.

From a long-term perspective, Mars must focus on identifying the right partners to develop a comprehensive modernization roadmap, adapt their operational models, and refine delivery strategies and sourcing decisions. Investing in the appropriate technologies and tools essential for fostering growth and ensuring operational continuity will be crucial.

  1. Service provider portfolios will likely reshuffle

Before the spin-off, Kellogg Company, the parent company of Kellanova’s brands, relied on IT service providers such as Wipro, LTIMindtree, and Capgemini while Mars has worked with service providers such as Accenture, TCS, and Cognizant.
The acquisition could potentially result in lost revenue for Kellanova’s current providers due to provider consolidation and the elimination of redundancies. However, providers offering unique intellectual property or specialized technology might have opportunities to increase their revenue by serving a larger enterprise.

Another plausible scenario, as stated above, is that Mars and Kellanova may opt to retain their distinct IT infrastructures and continue with their current service providers. This approach would mitigate the risk of major disruptions to existing systems and practices. However, it could come at the expense of potential synergies, both in terms of service vendor costs and collaborative opportunities. Maintaining separate IT infrastructures may also pose challenges for implementing enterprise-wide IT initiatives.

Ultimately, Kellanova’s IT infrastructure decisions will depend on whether it fully integrates within Mars or is kept as a separate entity. This choice will shape how its IT systems are managed, so it’s important to watch how Mars plans to position Kellanova.

What lies ahead for Mars post-Kellanova acquisition

The deal is expected to be finalized by the first half of 2025, at which point Mars will acquire all of Kellanova’s brands, assets, and operations. This includes its snacking brands, international cereal and noodle portfolio, North American plant-based foods, and frozen breakfast items.

According to a December 2023 article by Forbes, Andrew Clarke, Mars’ Global President of Snacking, stated that Mars aims to double its snacking division’s annual revenue from US$18 billion to US$36 billion over the next decade. The addition of a US$13 billion revenue brand to their snacking portfolio represents a significant step toward achieving this goal. With the right partners supporting its IT and operations, Mars is well-positioned not only to meet but potentially exceed this target.

In conclusion, this acquisition announcement presents numerous opportunities for IT service providers. These include, but are not limited to, system integration, data migration, change management, compliance and regulatory services, revenue growth management, and sustainability initiatives.

We are closely monitoring market and regulatory changes. To discuss the Mars acquisition of Kellanova and its impact on the CPG sector and IT services landscape, please reach out to abhishek.mundra@everestgrp.com, a.verma@everestgrp.com, and shraddha.pandey@everestgrp.com

Learn more about Everest Group’s Engage Conference. The event will tackle forward-looking topics such as the impact of generative AI on businesses worldwide, future trends in location and talent, and cost optimization.

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Salesforce Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment https://www.everestgrp.com/peak-matrix/it_security/salesforce-services.html Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:56:10 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=118702 Salesforce Services

While industry-specific cloud solutions serve business-specific needs, Salesforce’s focus has shifted to a unified customer view with Einstein Analytics and Customer 360 with evolving enterprise expectations. AI and ML integration has further boosted Salesforce’s automation, personalization, and data analytics capabilities. […]]]>
Salesforce Services

While industry-specific cloud solutions serve business-specific needs, Salesforce’s focus has shifted to a unified customer view with Einstein Analytics and Customer 360 with evolving enterprise expectations. AI and ML integration has further boosted Salesforce’s automation, personalization, and data analytics capabilities.

Providers are investing in scaling their industry- and generative AI-specific talent pools. Simultaneously, they are forging dedicated partnerships with Salesforce in areas such as AI and co-innovation and developing differentiated IP and assets to augment enterprise transformation journeys.

  • Salesforce Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024

    Salesforce Services

    What is in this PEAK Matrix® Report

    In this report, we assess 24 providers featured on the Salesforce Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 and categorize them as Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants based on their capabilities and offerings.

    Contents:

    In this report, we feature detailed assessments – including strengths and limitations – of 24 providers that focus on Salesforce services.

    Scope:  

    • All industries and geographies
    • This assessment is based on Everest Group’s annual RFI process for calendar year 2024, interactions with leading providers, client reference checks, and ongoing analysis of the Salesforce services mark
    READ ON

What is the PEAK Matrix®?

The PEAK Matrix® provides an objective, data-driven assessment of service and technology providers based on their overall capability and market impact across different global services markets, classifying them into three categories: Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Top Service Providers

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Sustainability in Retail and CPG: A Reactive Approach Will No Longer Work | Blog https://www.everestgrp.com/esg/sustainability-in-retail-and-cpg-a-reactive-approach-will-no-longer-work-blog.html Thu, 04 Jul 2024 11:43:29 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=117693 ESG

With increasing customer preferences for environmentally friendly products and evolving government regulations, retail and consumer packaged goods (RCPG) enterprises are being compelled to embrace sustainable practices. Read on to learn how they are actively engaging with the rapidly evolving sustainability […]]]>
ESG

With increasing customer preferences for environmentally friendly products and evolving government regulations, retail and consumer packaged goods (RCPG) enterprises are being compelled to embrace sustainable practices. Read on to learn how they are actively engaging with the rapidly evolving sustainability technology ecosystem to expedite their ESG journeys.

Contact us to speak to an analyst on this topic.

Sustainability has long been a pivotal issue, but changing consumer behavior, a shifting regulatory landscape, and escalating climate change impacts have intensified pressure on industries to address their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) footprint. Our recent research revealed that:

79% of consumers are willing to switch brands based on their environmental and social practices.

5% of revenue is the cost of waste and waste disposal on average for retailers and CPG companies.

Companies with consistently high ESG performance tended to score more than 2x on total shareholder return than those with medium ESG performance.

The retail consumer packaged goods (RCPG) industry is now more committed than ever to sustainable practices, recognizing the urgency of integrating sustainability in retail and CPG operations. This involves mitigating climate risks, enhancing long-term resilience, and contributing to a sustainable future through technological investments, product innovation, supply chain optimization, and transparent disclosures. Many firms have embarked on the journey to become purpose-driven organizations, embedding sustainability into their core business strategies.

From our analysis, the following key areas emerge:

  1. ESG data management: Centralized systems for collecting and analyzing ESG data help companies track their sustainability performance and identify areas for improvement. These systems enhance operational efficiency by automating data collection and reporting processes.

For instance, Walmart leverages an ESG data management system to track and report its sustainability performance, focusing on monitoring energy consumption, carbon emissions, and waste management

  1. Supply chain traceability: Advanced technologies like blockchain and IoT enable companies to monitor their supply chains in real-time, ensuring transparency and accountability from source to shelf. This helps in managing ethical sourcing and reducing the risk of supply chain disruptions.

For instance, Nestlé uses blockchain technology to track milk and palm oil supply chains, ensuring sustainable and ethical sourcing while providing transparency from origin to the final product

  1. Climate risk analytics: Predictive analytics tools assess the impact of climate change on business operations, enabling companies to proactively mitigate risks. These tools support scenario planning and help attract investment by demonstrating a commitment to managing environmental risks.

For instance, PepsiCo uses predictive analytics tools to evaluate the impact of climate change on agricultural supply chains. This allows the company to develop strategies to mitigate risks related to crop yields and water availability, ensuring long-term sustainability

  1. Circular economy practices: Embracing circular economy principles, such as using recycled materials and designing products for longevity, helps reduce waste and resource consumption.

For instance, SHEIN has launched a new apparel collection made from “deadstock,” the excess, unsold, and leftover fabric inventory that is typically discarded by fashion brands. SHEIN is utilizing Queen of Raw’s proprietary software, Materia MX, to source existing materials from brands and retailers looking to responsibly clear out their excess fabric inventory rather than have it go to waste in landfills

  1. Sustainable Consumer Experience: Digital labels and QR codes provide consumers with detailed information about the sustainability attributes of products, enhancing transparency and building brand loyalty.

For instance, Patagonia uses QR codes to provide customers with detailed information about product sustainability, enhancing consumer trust and reducing the need for single-use tags, thereby promoting a more sustainable consumer experience

  1. Waste minimization: Advanced inventory management systems and IoT sensors help companies monitor stock levels in real time, reducing waste from overstocking and spoilage.

For instance, Tesco uses IoT technology for real-time inventory tracking, reducing waste from overstocking and spoilage, enhancing sustainability by ensuring products are sold before expiration

A framework to guide RCPG enterprises in their sustainable business model transformation journey

As enterprises navigate the transformation to derive more value from their sustainability investments, The Everest Group framework for guiding Retail Consumer Packaged Goods (RCPG) enterprises in sustainable business model transformation involves four key steps: Commit, Define, Invest, and Sustain. This approach provides a structured path to integrating sustainability into core business strategies.

sustainability blog

 

The outlook for sustainability in retail and CPG

Consumer demand for sustainable products continues to rise as awareness of environmental impacts grows. This drives innovation and investment in sustainable practices, resulting in new products and business models that prioritize sustainability. Companies that embrace these changes will build stronger, more resilient brands. Ultimately, successful companies will be those that integrate sustainability into their core strategies, ensuring every aspect of their operations is environmentally mindful. This approach not only contributes to a healthier planet but also creates value for stakeholders and ensures long-term success in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace. By embedding sustainability into their business models and leveraging advanced technologies, retail, and CPG companies can achieve environmental goals while driving growth and profitability.

Everest Group will continue to follow the evolution in this space. To discuss sustainability in retail and the CPG industry, please reach out to Abhishek Mundra, abhishek.mundra@everestgrp.com, Ambika Kini, ambika.kini@everestgrp.com, and Shraddha Pandey, shraddha.pandey@everestgrp.com.

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Cloud ERP Wars: Is Infor Adoption Reaching the Tipping Point? | Blog https://www.everestgrp.com/cloud-infrastructure/cloud-erp-wars-is-infor-adoption-reaching-the-tipping-point-blog.html Thu, 04 Jul 2024 07:13:29 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=117688 GettyImages 1473640467

As enterprises turn to industry-specific ERP solutions, Infor’s growing presence in the Cloud ERP market is becoming more prominent. This blog explores Infor’s strengths and challenges as it aims to compete with traditional ERPs. Reach out to us to discuss […]]]>
GettyImages 1473640467

As enterprises turn to industry-specific ERP solutions, Infor’s growing presence in the Cloud ERP market is becoming more prominent. This blog explores Infor’s strengths and challenges as it aims to compete with traditional ERPs. Reach out to us to discuss further.

In recent interactions with enterprises regarding their ERP investments, it has become evident that there is a growing preference for industry-specific ERP that can bridge the gap between traditional ERP and core business systems. While traditional ERPs such as SAP, Oracle, and Dynamics cater to broader enterprise objectives, industry-specific ERPs are tailored for specific industries, offering specialized functionality, seamless integration, and industry-focused approaches that shape their offerings.

Industry-specific ERPs offer several advantages over traditional counterparts, including industry-specific features, cost efficiency, smooth integration, rapid implementation, enhanced user experience, comprehensive data insights, and adaptability to dynamic market conditions.

One prominent player in this landscape is Infor, a platform we have closely observed. In a previous blog from February 2020 titled “Koch Industries’ Takeover of Infor Signals Key Bet on Cloud ERP Market | Blog,” we delved into the reasons behind Infor’s acquisition and its implications for the Cloud ERP sector.

Infor’s financial performance is notable, boasting approximately US$3.5 billion in total revenue and around US$1.2 billion in SaaS revenue. The platform has achieved remarkable growth of around 20% over the past few years.

There are several key factors contributing to Infor’s success:

  • Deep industry-specificity: Infor’s primary strength lies in its strong focus on industry-tailored offerings, especially for manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and the public sector. Infor’s commitment to industry-specificity is evident from its investment in restructuring its internal organization around focus industries
  • Increasing global presence and partnerships: With operations spanning over 45 countries and a workforce of over 19,000, Infor’s global presence is substantial. Its extensive partnership network encompasses resellers, alliance partners, product partners, service partners, and support partners, featuring prominent names such as Accenture, HCLTech, Deloitte, Wipro, and TCS, as well as specialized partners such as Grant Thornton and Advoco
  • Cloud adaptability: While initially an on-premises ERP, Infor has effectively evolved its cloud capabilities over time. Its leadership in cloud adoption within the industry-specific ERP segment has been recognized, attributed in part to strategic collaborations with AWS for accelerated cloud deployment and innovation. Additionally, Infor’s unique approach to building three separate public cloud solutions, each designed to support a limited number of industries, helps it keep its solution compact, agile, and relevant.

While all the above key factors are driving Infor’s growth, there are some areas that enterprises need to be aware of while assessing Infor as their ERP of choice –

  • AI and gen AI capabilities: Technology is constantly evolving, and expectations for all platform functionality to have AI and gen AI embedded are also picking up. While Infor offers some capabilities, competitors such as Microsoft, Oracle, and SAP are making significant investments in this area. Enterprises may need to evaluate AI and related technologies closely relevant to their needs
  • Enterprise feedback: Some enterprises have raised concerns about Infor’s reporting tools, customer support, and the complexity of integrating with other systems. Enterprises must be aware of such concerns before starting their ERP implementation journey
  • Heavy customization needs: Infor’s strength lies in its industry-specific solutions, but this focus might not be ideal for companies that require extensive customization of their ERP system

The implications for both enterprises and service providers are noteworthy. While Infor’s platform primarily catered to SMBs, there is an observable shift towards larger deals and expanded market share, especially in comparison to traditional ERPs. Enterprises are becoming discerning in their ERP choices, exploring alternatives beyond conventional options to maximize value from their investments. Moreover, Infor is gaining traction even among larger corporations, as exemplified by companies such as Pfizer, Electrolux, Lenovo, GAP, and Jaguar. Instances have emerged where Infor’s solutions have been adopted to replace or supplement traditional ERPs. Recent examples include Riedel, SEG Automotive, Delta Plus, and Saudi Lime.

The adoption of cloud in manufacturing and related industries has hit the tipping point where we see accelerated adoption of cloud, whether this enables Infor to hit its tipping point is a story that is yet to unfold. As Infor scales up to become relevant for large and very large enterprise segments, it needs to address challenges around integration and business value realization from the ERP investments. At the same time, they would also need to get the mindshare of a partner network for them to scale up the talent needed for Infor implementation. Few providers have already started scaling their Infor practice; however, that may not be sufficient.

Watch this space for additional blogs on how the key niche ERP players are evolving with time, key considerations for enterprises and service providers, and what this means for traditional ERPs.

What has been your experience with Infor? Please feel free to write to us at abhishek.mundra@everestgrp.com and arun.prateek@everestgrp.com.

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The State of Generative AI in the Retail and CPG Industry | Webinar https://www.everestgrp.com/webinars/the-state-of-generative-ai-in-the-retail-and-cpg-industry-webinar/ Thu, 09 May 2024 15:17:57 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=113706 The State of Generative AI in the Retail and CPG Industry_GTP_1200x628

In today’s competitive retail and CPG landscape, businesses face pressing challenges, from fluctuating consumer preferences to operational complexities. Generative AI (gen AI) presents a crucial solution, enabling rapid product innovation and enhanced operational efficiency. Adopting gen AI is now essential […]]]>
The State of Generative AI in the Retail and CPG Industry_GTP_1200x628

WATCH THE WEBINAR ON-DEMAND

In today’s competitive retail and CPG landscape, businesses face pressing challenges, from fluctuating consumer preferences to operational complexities. Generative AI (gen AI) presents a crucial solution, enabling rapid product innovation and enhanced operational efficiency. Adopting gen AI is now essential for companies aiming to stay ahead, and the conversation has shifted from “where can gen AI work” to “where is gen AI working?”

This webinar offered buyers and service providers valuable insights into real-world use cases where pilots progress to full production, key challenges, and the enterprise playbook around AI governance.

What questions has the webinar answered for the participants?

  • What are the use cases in the industry where gen AI adoption is moving from pilot to production?
  • What is the impact realized from the adoption of gen AI?
  • What are common challenges while scaling gen AI adoption?
  • What are the key business, technology, and sourcing implications of different regulations in North America and Europe around gen AI?

Who should attend?

  • CIOs, CTOs
  • IT/BPO strategy and department heads
  • Heads of outsourcing
  • Procurement managers
  • Global sourcing mangers
  • Vendor managers
  • Senior marketing executives
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SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market Enterprises PEAK Matrix® Assessment https://www.everestgrp.com/peak-matrix/it_security/sap-business-application-services-for-mid-market-enterprises.html Mon, 22 Apr 2024 12:55:47 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=114351 SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market Enterprises

SAP’s mid-market services market has already made a significant impact, contributing an impressive US$10+ billion with a double-digit YoY growth rate. Momentum is growing for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to adopt the SAP suite for modernization and consolidation initiatives […]]]>
SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market Enterprises

SAP’s mid-market services market has already made a significant impact, contributing an impressive US$10+ billion with a double-digit YoY growth rate. Momentum is growing for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to adopt the SAP suite for modernization and consolidation initiatives since the launch of SAP BTP, RISE with SAP, and GROW with SAP programs.

SAP mid-market customers have distinct priorities compared to large clients. Unlike their large counterparts, which have the resources to build complex solutions with extensive customization, the majority of SMBs seek packaged solutions, including preconfigured industry solutions, to transform their processes and experiences. They are cost-efficient and often spend in staggered intervals on multiple short sprints of engagements.

With distinct enterprise demands and evolving SAP offerings, providers are investing in talent initiatives and building differentiated IP assets to assist enterprises in their SAP journey.

  • SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market Enterprises PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024

    SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market Enterprises

    What is in this PEAK Matrix® Report

    In this report, we assess 15 providers featured on the SAP Business Application Services for Mid-market PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 and categorize them as Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants based on their capabilities and offerings. Each profile comprehensively describes providers’ focus areas, key Intellectual Property (IP) / solutions, and domain investments.


    Contents: 

    This report features detailed assessments, including strengths and limitations, of 15 providers that focus on SAP business application services.

    Scope:

    • All industries and geographies
    • The assessment is based on Everest Group’s annual RFI process for the calendar year 2023, interactions with leading providers, client reference checks, and an ongoing analysis of the SAP business application services market
    READ ON
     

What is the PEAK Matrix®?

The PEAK Matrix® provides an objective, data-driven assessment of service and technology providers based on their overall capability and market impact across different global services markets, classifying them into three categories: Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Top Service Providers

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Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) IT Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment https://www.everestgrp.com/peak-matrix/it_security/consumer-packaged-goods-cpg-it-services.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:40:29 +0000 https://www.everestgrp.com/?p=112021 Consumer Packaged Goods

Despite economic uncertainties and margin pressures, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) enterprises are modernizing their IT systems across the entire value chain. These enterprises primarily focus on personalizing customer experience, streamlining supply chains, and emphasizing digital commerce using technologies such as […]]]>
Consumer Packaged Goods

Despite economic uncertainties and margin pressures, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) enterprises are modernizing their IT systems across the entire value chain. These enterprises primarily focus on personalizing customer experience, streamlining supply chains, and emphasizing digital commerce using technologies such as AI/ML, cloud, IoT, and automation. Key priorities also involve fortifying data security, ensuring compliance, and automating manual processes to enhance overall efficiency. With widespread technology adoption, enterprises are increasingly leveraging digital strategies to enhance their competitive edge, increase operational efficiency, optimize processes, deliver personalized experiences to consumers, and drive growth.

  • Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) IT Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024

    Consumer Packaged Goods

    What is in this PEAK Matrix® Report

    In this report, we assess 23 providers featured on the CPG IT Services PEAK Matrix®. Each provider profile offers a comprehensive picture of its service focus, key Intellectual Property (IP) / solutions, domain investments, and case studies.

    Contents:

    • This report features detailed assessments, including strengths and limitations, of 23 providers that focus on IT transformation services in the CPG industry.

    Scope:

    • Industry: CPG
    • Geography: global
    • The assessment is based on Everest Group’s annual RFI process for the calendar year 2023, interactions with leading providers, client reference checks, and an ongoing analysis of the CPG IT services market
    READ ON

What is the PEAK Matrix®?

The PEAK Matrix® provides an objective, data-driven assessment of service and technology providers based on their overall capability and market impact across different global services markets, classifying them into three categories: Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Top Service Providers

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