There is still confusion in the market about the current state of data initiatives, especially when it comes to the potential impact of big data on traditional business intelligence and analytics practices. Customers and vendors alike are working to build robust solutions even as new approaches, technologies, and best practices continue to evolve rapidly. Still few can accurately assess the motivations, impacts, and implications of the shifts. ESG undertook a broad study to establish a baseline on various data initiatives and their relative maturity.

While many big data vendors focus on global enterprises, the benefits of big data are relevant to businesses of all sizes. In many ways, it appears that the midmarket has been somewhat neglected and underpenetrated for newer big data solutions. This portion of the addressable market may have unique needs, concerns, and opportunities facing them. What is important is to understand how these groups are different from larger businesses. Understanding these differences will help vendors to be more successful in providing appropriate offerings.