Flevy Management Insights Q&A
What emerging technologies are poised to redefine BDP in the next decade?
     David Tang    |    BDP


This article provides a detailed response to: What emerging technologies are poised to redefine BDP in the next decade? For a comprehensive understanding of BDP, we also include relevant case studies for further reading and links to BDP best practice resources.

TLDR Emerging technologies such as AI and ML, Blockchain, and IoT are set to transform Business Data Processing by improving data analysis, security, and integrity, presenting new opportunities for innovation.

Reading time: 4 minutes

Before we begin, let's review some important management concepts, as they related to this question.

What does Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning mean?
What does Blockchain Technology mean?
What does Internet of Things (IoT) mean?


Emerging technologies are continuously reshaping the landscape of Business Data Processing (BDP). In the next decade, several key technologies stand out for their potential to redefine how organizations manage, process, and leverage data for strategic advantage. These technologies not only promise to enhance operational efficiency but also offer new avenues for innovation and competitive differentiation.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of transforming BDP. Organizations are leveraging AI to automate complex data processing tasks, which traditionally required significant human intervention. According to McKinsey, AI and ML applications could potentially create up to $2.6 trillion in value annually in marketing and sales, and up to $2 trillion in manufacturing and supply chain planning. These technologies enable the analysis of vast datasets more efficiently, helping organizations to uncover insights that can drive strategic decisions.

Real-world examples include AI-driven customer relationship management (CRM) systems that predict customer behavior and personalize interactions based on historical data. Additionally, ML algorithms are being used to optimize supply chains, predicting demand and identifying potential disruptions before they occur. This not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances customer satisfaction by ensuring timely delivery of products and services.

Moreover, AI and ML are instrumental in enhancing data quality and integrity. By automating the data cleansing process, these technologies ensure that the data used for decision-making is accurate and reliable. This is crucial for organizations aiming to base their strategic planning on solid, data-driven insights.

Are you familiar with Flevy? We are you shortcut to immediate value.
Flevy provides business best practices—the same as those produced by top-tier consulting firms and used by Fortune 100 companies. Our best practice business frameworks, financial models, and templates are of the same caliber as those produced by top-tier management consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and Accenture. Most were developed by seasoned executives and consultants with 20+ years of experience.

Trusted by over 10,000+ Client Organizations
Since 2012, we have provided best practices to over 10,000 businesses and organizations of all sizes, from startups and small businesses to the Fortune 100, in over 130 countries.
AT&T GE Cisco Intel IBM Coke Dell Toyota HP Nike Samsung Microsoft Astrazeneca JP Morgan KPMG Walgreens Walmart 3M Kaiser Oracle SAP Google E&Y Volvo Bosch Merck Fedex Shell Amgen Eli Lilly Roche AIG Abbott Amazon PwC T-Mobile Broadcom Bayer Pearson Titleist ConEd Pfizer NTT Data Schwab

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is another emerging technology with significant implications for BDP. Known for its role in cryptocurrencies, blockchain offers much more, particularly in terms of data security, transparency, and integrity. For instance, Deloitte highlights blockchain's potential to securely and transparently track the movement of goods, information, and payments through supply chains. This capability is particularly valuable for industries where provenance and authenticity are critical, such as pharmaceuticals and luxury goods.

Blockchain enables decentralized data storage, making it nearly impossible to alter historical data without detection. This enhances trust among stakeholders, as the data integrity is assured. Furthermore, smart contracts—self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code—can automate transactions and enforce agreements without the need for intermediaries. This not only reduces processing times but also minimizes the risk of fraud and errors.

Organizations are exploring blockchain for use cases beyond cryptocurrencies, including securing medical records, streamlining cross-border payments, and enhancing identity verification processes. This broad applicability underscores blockchain's potential to revolutionize data processing practices across various sectors.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming BDP by generating an unprecedented volume of data from connected devices. Gartner forecasts that the enterprise and automotive sectors will account for 5.8 billion IoT endpoints in 2020, a 21% increase from 2019. This explosion of data offers organizations the opportunity to gain deeper insights into operations, customer behavior, and market trends.

IoT devices are being used to monitor and optimize manufacturing processes, track assets in real-time, and improve workplace safety. For example, sensors on machinery can predict failures before they occur, allowing for preventive maintenance that minimizes downtime and operational costs. Similarly, wearable IoT devices can monitor employee health and safety in hazardous environments, enhancing worker welfare and reducing the risk of accidents.

However, the integration of IoT into BDP also presents challenges, particularly regarding data management and security. Organizations must invest in robust data analytics and security frameworks to effectively harness the potential of IoT-generated data. This includes developing capabilities to process and analyze data in real-time, as well as implementing stringent data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information.

Emerging technologies like AI and ML, blockchain, and IoT are redefining the paradigms of Business Data Processing. By enhancing data analysis, security, and integrity, these technologies offer organizations new opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage. However, to fully capitalize on these opportunities, organizations must navigate the associated challenges, including data management complexity and security concerns. Strategic investment in these technologies, coupled with a focus on skill development and operational integration, will be key for organizations aiming to lead in the digital era.

Best Practices in BDP

Here are best practices relevant to BDP from the Flevy Marketplace. View all our BDP materials here.

Did you know?
The average daily rate of a McKinsey consultant is $6,625 (not including expenses). The average price of a Flevy document is $65.

Explore all of our best practices in: BDP

BDP Case Studies

For a practical understanding of BDP, take a look at these case studies.

Revenue Management Initiative for Boutique Hotels in Competitive Urban Markets

Scenario: A boutique hotel chain is grappling with suboptimal occupancy rates and revenue per available room (RevPAR) in a highly competitive urban environment.

Read Full Case Study

Consumer Packaged Goods Best Practices Advancement in Health-Conscious Market

Scenario: The organization is a mid-sized producer of health-focused consumer packaged goods in North America.

Read Full Case Study

Best Practice Enhancement in Chemicals Sector

Scenario: The organization is a mid-sized chemical producer specializing in polymers and faced with stagnating market share due to outdated operational practices.

Read Full Case Study

E-commerce Platform Best Demonstrated Practices Optimization

Scenario: A mid-sized e-commerce firm specializing in health and wellness products is facing operational challenges in managing its Best Demonstrated Practices.

Read Full Case Study

Inventory Management Enhancement in Aerospace

Scenario: The organization is a mid-sized aerospace components supplier grappling with inventory inefficiencies that have led to increased carrying costs and missed delivery timelines.

Read Full Case Study

Growth Strategy Enhancement for Cosmetic Firm in Luxury Segment

Scenario: The organization in question operates within the luxury cosmetics industry and has been grappling with maintaining consistency and quality across its global brand portfolio.

Read Full Case Study




Flevy is the world's largest knowledge base of best practices.


Leverage the Experience of Experts.

Find documents of the same caliber as those used by top-tier consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, Accenture.

Download Immediately and Use.

Our PowerPoint presentations, Excel workbooks, and Word documents are completely customizable, including rebrandable.

Save Time, Effort, and Money.

Save yourself and your employees countless hours. Use that time to work on more value-added and fulfilling activities.




Read Customer Testimonials

  •  
    "As a niche strategic consulting firm, Flevy and FlevyPro frameworks and documents are an on-going reference to help us structure our findings and recommendations to our clients as well as improve their clarity, strength, and visual power. For us, it is an invaluable resource to increase our impact and value."

    – David Coloma, Consulting Area Manager at Cynertia Consulting
  •  
    "As a young consulting firm, requests for input from clients vary and it's sometimes impossible to provide expert solutions across a broad spectrum of requirements. That was before I discovered Flevy.com.

    Through subscription to this invaluable site of a plethora of topics that are key and crucial to consulting, I "

    – Nishi Singh, Strategist and MD at NSP Consultants
  •  
    "I have used Flevy services for a number of years and have never, ever been disappointed. As a matter of fact, David and his team continue, time after time, to impress me with their willingness to assist and in the real sense of the word. I have concluded in fact "

    – Roberto Pelliccia, Senior Executive in International Hospitality
  •  
    "I have used FlevyPro for several business applications. It is a great complement to working with expensive consultants. The quality and effectiveness of the tools are of the highest standards."

    – Moritz Bernhoerster, Global Sourcing Director at Fortune 500
  •  
    "[Flevy] produces some great work that has been/continues to be of immense help not only to myself, but as I seek to provide professional services to my clients, it give me a large "tool box" of resources that are critical to provide them with the quality of service and outcomes they are expecting."

    – Royston Knowles, Executive with 50+ Years of Board Level Experience
  •  
    "One of the great discoveries that I have made for my business is the Flevy library of training materials.

    As a Lean Transformation Expert, I am always making presentations to clients on a variety of topics: Training, Transformation, Total Productive Maintenance, Culture, Coaching, Tools, Leadership Behavior, etc. Flevy "

    – Ed Kemmerling, Senior Lean Transformation Expert at PMG
  •  
    "Last Sunday morning, I was diligently working on an important presentation for a client and found myself in need of additional content and suitable templates for various types of graphics. Flevy.com proved to be a treasure trove for both content and design at a reasonable price, considering the time I "

    – M. E., Chief Commercial Officer, International Logistics Service Provider
  •  
    "Flevy.com has proven to be an invaluable resource library to our Independent Management Consultancy, supporting and enabling us to better serve our enterprise clients.

    The value derived from our [FlevyPro] subscription in terms of the business it has helped to gain far exceeds the investment made, making a subscription a no-brainer for any growing consultancy – or in-house strategy team."

    – Dean Carlton, Chief Transformation Officer, Global Village Transformations Pty Ltd.



Download our FREE Strategy & Transformation Framework Templates

Download our free compilation of 50+ Strategy & Transformation slides and templates. Frameworks include McKinsey 7-S Strategy Model, Balanced Scorecard, Disruptive Innovation, BCG Experience Curve, and many more.