Strategic ERP and technology insights for 2025

2025 really does promise to be a decisive 12 months, with new developments reshaping enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and technology more broadly across the corporate landscape.

As the curtain draws on 2024, here are what we believe will be the top trends driving transformation in 2025, with insights into how BCN can support your businesses through these changes.

1. AI-driven business operations will multiply

2025 will see AI become deeply embedded in almost every aspect of business operations, evolving from a supplementary tool to a core driver of automation, predictive analytics, and data-driven decision-making.

Whether it’s optimising supply chains, personalising customer interactions, or streamlining back-office processes, AI and how businesses deploy it will become a central pillar of their success.

• Strategic Impact: As AI can enhance customer experiences, speed up operations, and optimise resource management, companies that fail to embrace it risk missing out on these and other powerful benefits, impacting their market competitiveness accordingly.
• BCN’s Role: As a trusted Microsoft Solutions partner, BCN can assist you with the integration of AI technologies such as Azure AI, Power Automate, and Microsoft 365 Copilot. Through expert consultation, implementation, and training, we’ll ensure that you can leverage AI to capitalise on automated workflows and predictive insights.

2. The subscription economy will grow

The subscription economy is expanding beyond traditional SaaS models, with industries like manufacturing, retail, and healthcare increasingly adopting subscription-based models. As well as allowing companies to generate recurring revenue and stabilised cash flows, the model facilitates the provision of ongoing updates and services, further boosting customer loyalty.

• Strategic Impact: Subscription models are transforming customer retention and lifetime value, meaning companies must adapt their financial systems to manage recurring revenue and complex billing.
• BCN’s Role: BCN will empower you to transition to subscription-based business models. Using Dynamics 365, we’ll get you to a stage where you can automate invoicing, manage recurring billing, and ensure accurate revenue recognition.

3. Sustainability becomes a core business strategy

Sustainability is no longer an optional CSR initiative; it’s becoming a cornerstone of business strategy. As consumers, investors, and regulatory bodies increasingly demand eco-friendly and socially responsible operations, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics have emerged as key differentiators between businesses.

• Strategic Impact: Companies with robust ESG frameworks attract more investment, maintain greater customer loyalty, and meet stringent regulatory demands more ably. Sustainable practices are now critical across industries.
• BCN’s Role: BCN will help you adopt sustainable IT strategies by migrating to energy-efficient Microsoft data centres, reducing your environmental impact while optimising your IT infrastructure for long-term sustainability.

4. Data privacy and security will tighten

As businesses handle increasingly vast amounts of data, ensuring data privacy and protection is paramount. With cybercrime forecasted to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (up from $3 trillion in 2015), the need for robust data security measures has never been more critical.

• Strategic Impact: Data breaches and non-compliance with global privacy regulations, such as the GDPR and CCPA can cripple businesses financially and reputationally. Protecting customer data is essential to maintaining trust and meeting regulatory requirements.
• BCN’s Role: BCN will support you to enhance data privacy and security through Cyber Essentials Certification. By integrating robust security frameworks, we’ll ensure you can confidently manage your data while mitigating the risks of cyber attacks.

As 2025 approaches, businesses must stay ahead by embracing AI-driven operations, transitioning to subscription models, prioritising sustainability, and safeguarding data. With BCN as your trusted technology partner, you’ll be well-equipped to leverage the latest technologies and meet the challenges of the future head-on.