Major Report Highlights Data Distrust Harming Business Operations and Efficiency

Widespread Data Distrust: A Threat to Operational Efficiency

A recent report by Stibo Systems has unveiled a concerning trend impacting the operational efficiency of businesses across various sectors. Entitled Through the Storm: How System Trust Builds Operational Resilience, the report highlights a significant gap in trust for enterprise data among manufacturing leaders, with only 25% expressing full confidence in their data systems.

In this study, which surveyed 500 U.S. operational leaders holding senior management positions across numerous industries, including manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), retail, aerospace, and life sciences, the findings pinpointed several crucial challenges faced by organizations in their data handling practices.

Key Survey Insights

1. Manual Data Overload: An overwhelming 86% of employees reported spending over 30% of their workday on manual data-related tasks. This increased burden negatively impacts productivity and hinders timely decision-making.

2. System Fragmentation: A staggering 76% of organizations still rely on mismatched systems that complicate data management. Additionally, 67% of business leaders noted difficulties in syncing incompatible technologies, which exacerbates the distrust felt towards their data tools.

3. Inconsistency in Data: Half of the respondents identified data inconsistency as a primary contributor to their lack of trust in their data, fostering a climate of uncertainty that stifles transformation efforts.

James van Pelt, the Manufacturing Practice Lead at Stibo Systems, emphasizes the pivotal role of trust in achieving operational transformation. He stated, "Efficiency isn't just about speed – it's about trust. Our research shows that without reliable systems and interoperable data, even the most advanced technologies fall short."

The report's findings underscore the critical need for organizations to prioritize interoperability within their technology stacks, particularly as 2025 approaches and many leaders cite efficiency as a top goal.

The Call for Action

Adrian Carr, CEO of Stibo Systems, referred to the report as a waking call for business leaders. He warns that without establishing a unified data foundation, investments in technologies like artificial intelligence and automation are unlikely to fulfill their potential. Carr stated, "Trust in data isn't a 'nice-to-have' – it's the foundation of future-ready operations."

The repercussions of data distrust are extensive, as organizations face not only a hindrance to productivity but also a challenge in keeping pace with the rapid technological advancements shaping their industries. As leaders seek efficient operations, they must proactively address the fragmentation and inconsistency that permeate their data management processes.

Stibo Systems advocates for the development of modern Master Data Management (MDM) frameworks that substantially reduce fragmentation and enhance trust. Such measures are essential for fostering organizational agility, allowing companies to adapt to market shifts successfully.

Looking Forward

The findings from this report accentuate the urgency for businesses to reevaluate their data management strategies. The right tools and systems can empower enterprises to build the data confidence necessary for rapid adaptation, sustainable growth, and resilience in today's fast-paced market environment. Organizations that act now to rectify their data infrastructure will position themselves advantageously for the future.

For more detailed findings, click here.

About Stibo Systems
Stibo Systems stands at the forefront of enabling trustworthy data through innovative AI-powered MDM solutions. Their platforms empower enterprises worldwide, delivering differentiated customer and product experiences. Headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark, Stibo Systems is a privately-held entity dedicated to sustainable growth through foundational ownership.