History tells us that with every paradigm shift, there are planned promises and unintended perils. The automobile enabled freedom, but also urban sprawl; the invention of plastic provided many products but accelerated environmental pollution; and while social media can connect and mobilize us, it has also triggered a mental health crisis.

There is a roiling debate today over where AI takes us. Tech optimists feel that its power holds life-altering promise. Tech pessimists, on the other hand, fear what those unintended consequences of AI will be and how they will affect humanity. How can we be certain — how can even the experts be certain — when the technology is moving so fast that taking your eyes off it for a week renders you behind the times?

One thing is clear. AI is fundamentally reshaping society and business. As data and analytics leaders, we have a critical role in shaping how AI is being — and will be — used. But we can’t wait for the tech pundits to settle their debate, because the decisions we make now will determine whether AI fulfills its potential as a positive force or not.

A crucial part of that role is identifying emerging trends and the themes that inform them. With 2025 upon us, we highlight what we believe will shape the conversation around data and AI adoption over the coming year, to help organizations like yours make vital decisions that could have long-term consequences — for the better.

Download the Qlik 2025 Trends Quide now!