SoftwareVerdict Annual Letter 2025

Dear SoftwareVerdict Community,

As we step into 2025, we reflect on the milestones and achievements that defined the past year while looking ahead to the opportunities that lie before us. SoftwareVerdict continues to grow as a trusted global platform for software evaluation, research, and thought leadership, empowering businesses to make informed decisions with confidence.

What We Witnessed in 2024

The software industry evolved at an unprecedented pace in 2024, with AI, cloud computing, and data-driven solutions redefining the way businesses operate. Throughout the year, SoftwareVerdict remained at the forefront, providing in-depth research, market intelligence, and expert insights to help organizations navigate this transformation.

Key Software Trends in 2024

SoftwareVerdict’s research identified several major trends shaping the software industry:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): The adoption of AI and ML surged across sectors, driving automation, predictive analytics, and personalized user experiences.
• Cloud Computing: The shift to cloud-native architectures accelerated, enhancing scalability, security, and operational efficiency for enterprises.
• Low-Code/No-Code Development: Businesses embraced low-code/no-code platforms, enabling rapid application development and democratizing software creation.
• Cybersecurity & Digital Trust: Organizations prioritized cybersecurity, with significant investments in zero-trust architecture and AI-driven security solutions.
• Blockchain & Decentralized Technologies: The rise of blockchain applications extended beyond finance to supply chain, identity management, and secure transactions.

Investment Trends in 2024

The software industry attracted significant investments last year, with capital flowing into key technology areas. The chart below presents the percentage of total software investments allocated to these areas based on SoftwareVerdict’s research. Our findings are based on:

• Industry Surveys: We gathered insights from industry leaders, technology executives, and investment analysts.
• Market Data Analysis: We analyzed funding rounds, venture capital investments, and corporate spending reports from 2024.
• Expert Interviews: We consulted with subject matter experts across key technology domains to validate trends and investment priorities.
• SoftwareVerdict Research Reports: Our proprietary research, including the Strategic Business Review (SBR)® and Economic Impact Radar (EIR)®, provided deeper insights into market shifts and investment patterns.

Investment Distribution by Technology Area in 2024:

Technology Area	Investment Share (%)
Cloud and Edge Computing	48%
Advanced Connectivity	37%
Generative AI	36%
Applied AI	35%
Next-Generation Software Development	31%
Digital Trust and Cybersecurity	30%
Electrification and Renewables	28%
Industrializing Machine Learning	27%
Future of Mobility	21%
Climate Technologies	20%
Immersive-Reality Technologies	19%
Future of Bioengineering	18%
Future of Robotics	18%

(Source: SoftwareVerdict Research 2024)

Recognizing Excellence: ITL Awards 2024

A defining highlight of last year was the Innovation & Technology Leadership (ITL) Awards 2024, where we celebrated excellence in software and technology. The ITL Awards recognized groundbreaking products, visionary leaders, and transformative companies shaping the future of the industry. The winners set new benchmarks for innovation, customer impact, and technological advancement.

From disruptive AI-driven platforms to sustainable cloud solutions, the ITL Awards showcased the best in technology, reaffirming our commitment to spotlighting true industry pioneers. We extend our congratulations to all the winners and nominees who continue to push boundaries and inspire change.

SoftwareVerdict Awards 2024: Honoring Industry Excellence

In addition to the ITL Awards, the SoftwareVerdict Awards 2024 recognized outstanding software solutions and organizations across various categories. These awards highlighted companies demonstrating unparalleled innovation, customer success, and market leadership. The winners of the SoftwareVerdict Awards stood as benchmarks for excellence, reinforcing the impact of technology in shaping modern enterprises.

World’s Best Employer of Choice 2024

Another major highlight of the past year was the announcement of the World’s Best Employer of Choice 2024. This prestigious accolade honored organizations that prioritized employee well-being, fostered inclusive workplaces, and set industry standards for excellence in employer branding. The winners exemplified a commitment to culture, innovation, and people-first policies, establishing themselves as top workplaces of the future.

Expanding Our Research & Industry Influence

Throughout 2024, SoftwareVerdict strengthened its role as a key research authority with:

• Strategic Business Review (SBR)® reports, offering comprehensive industry analyses and software market trends.
• Economic Impact Radar (EIR)®, assessing the real-world economic influence of software innovations.
• SoftwareVerdict TrueView®, ensuring transparency and trust in software evaluations.

Our global reach expanded as we collaborated with industry leaders, executives, and innovators to deliver actionable insights that drive growth and efficiency.

Our Vision for 2025 and Beyond

As we enter 2025, we are committed to furthering our mission of empowering businesses with accurate software research, industry-leading evaluations, and thought-provoking insights. This year, we plan to:

• Enhance Our Research Capabilities: We will introduce new methodologies to ensure even greater accuracy, transparency, and relevance in our evaluations.
• Expand Industry Coverage: Our research will extend to emerging technologies, helping businesses stay ahead of the curve.
• Strengthen Community Engagement: Through deeper collaboration with industry leaders, we aim to foster a more connected ecosystem for software buyers and vendors.
• Introduce New Initiatives: Expect exciting programs that will continue to shape the future of the software industry, driving innovation and business growth.

We are grateful for the unwavering support of our community, partners, and thought leaders. Your engagement and contributions drive our mission forward. Here’s to another year of innovation, insight, and impact!

Sincerely,

Andrew Jackson
Executive Director
SoftwareVerdict