1 October 2024 — Data silos are the #1 challenge currently facing global IT leaders when it comes to their data strategy and implementation. That's according to newly released research from Confluent, which surveyed 4000 global IT leaders on their biggest IT challenges. It found that 69% of IT leaders believe "data spread across silos" is a major challenge for their organisations and a key focus area.

According to Confluent's data, the top three data challenges for IT leaders around the world include:

• Data spread across silos (69%)
• Inconsistency of data (68%)
• Timeliness and quality of data (62%)

As a result of these challenges, many IT leaders are rethinking their approach to data, switching from disjointed batch processing to real-time streaming. Half of leaders (50%) say data streaming technologies are now a top strategic priority, while a further 34% say they are an important secondary priority.

Those already using data streaming confirm the benefits of this approach, with 60% saying this change in approach is already enabling more data-driven operational decisions. A further 35% expect similar benefits in the next 12 months.

Commenting on the research, Richard Jones, data expert at Confluent said,"Most organisations struggle with the same data problems. The complexity of maximising data's value is a constant challenge, whether it's accessing, analysing, or simply understanding it.

"Through data streaming, IT and data teams can tackle these challenges right across the organisation. Real-time access to the right data exactly when it's needed will avoid and break down silos, promote visibility across the business, and enable better data governance. It's a data approach that's becoming critical as the use of AI continues to skyrocket and regulations evolve to protect the user, business, and consumer or customer data."