Once exclusively a specialist tool, Business Intelligence (BI) now forms an integral part of many core business processes, according to Datamonitor. This trend lends a distinct advantage to BI vendors providing high-quality end-to-end solutions, particularly as enterprises are looking to consolidate their BI needs around one single-vendor solution. Datamonitor cautions, however, that although the market leaders are well placed to maintain their position, the BI space is replete with others vendors that could challenge the current leaders, as evident in its BI vendor Decision Matrix report.

Datamonitor says the stakes are quite high: it forecasts the BI market to be worth $7.9 billion globally by year-end 2012, taking into account analytical BI, enterprise BI platforms, data quality management, and predictive analytics.

BI solutions -- application suites that enable organizations to store, query, analyze and present information captured or generated through operational process -- are being deployed increasingly widely throughout the organization.

Datamonitor has developed the Decision Matrix to help businesses select vendors based on their technology strength, reputation among customers, and impact in the market. Conclusions are based on a quantitative assessment of end-user sentiment, the capabilities of the business intelligence solutions on offer and technology features. Datamonitor’s research has revealed some interesting findings.

SAS and Oracle emerge as clear Business Intelligence market leaders

Based on their technology assessment, end user sentiment and market impact, SAS is the clear BI market leader. SAS offers a great portfolio of both basic and advanced functionality, backed up by a dependable support capability. Its stable financial footing, superb vision and lead in advanced analytics all imply SAS is well placed to continue as the BI market leader.

Oracle has successfully integrated its recently acquired BI expertise and, as a result, it has managed to exert itself within the BI market. However if one considers its user-base, commanding presence in the global applications market, and a comprehensive yet flexible BI solution, Oracle’s lead position comes as no surprise. Oracle’s dynamic outlook, exemplified by recent M&A activity, suggests it won’t be complacent and will continue to enhance its standing in the BI market.

With strong challengers behind them, the market leaders should not become complacent