Data-driven decision-making allows companies to personalize their offerings and predict market trends with greater accuracy; without access to this data, cloud and ERP companies risk falling behind competitors. Industry-specific cloud software solutions company, Infor, has announced the acquisition of a data-migration partner Albanero and a CPG consulting expert Acumen to keep its data capabilities up to par.
Infor’s acquisition of Albanero brings significant advantages in moving customers to the cloud and optimizing their data solutions. The integration of Albanero’s data mesh platform with Infor OS aims to provide a consolidated enterprise view of data – a key differentiator in the market. Albanero’s decentralized approach to data management also addresses challenges associated with centralized data systems, empowering data owners at the source and providing a robust data foundation for leveraging advanced technologies like GenAI.
“Cloud technologies have enabled Albanero to innovate in how data is managed,” explained Manish Sharma, founder and CTO of Albanero. “We are excited to provide Infor customers with a decentralized data mesh solution that puts the power of their data back into their business.
“This technological leap has addressed many of the challenges associated with centralized data management by empowering data owners at the source.”
In acquiring Acumen, a specialized consulting and analytics company that leverages data analytics for consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers, Infor aims to enhance its offerings in the industry. Acumen’s expertise in optimizing promotional investments and pricing strategies is vital for managing complex pricing requirements and responding effectively to market changes. By integrating Acumen into Infor CloudSuite Food & Beverage and CloudSuite Fashion, Infor adds critical functionality for Trade Promotion Management. This integration establishes a single source of truth for decision-making, enhancing the industry-specific data available for developing new technologies and capabilities.
Nick Ryan, co-founder of Acumen, said: “Joining Infor will enable us to leverage the latest Infor technologies to enhance our platforms and speed to market while enabling us to continue to grow our client base and extend our geographic reach.”
Over the past year, Infor has continued its strategy of acquiring companies that enhance its data capabilities through other strategic partnerships and innovations across its industry-specific CloudSuites. For instance, its partnership with SourceDay aimed to optimize direct material purchase order management by integrating deep, bi-directional technology across Infor’s Discrete Manufacturing and Distribution ERPs, emphasizing proactive data accuracy.
Additionally, aligned with last year’s bi-annual release cycle for customer agility, Infor included enhancements in ESG reporting and Infor GenAI, especially aimed at leveraging industry-specific data for improved decision-making.
Infor’s competitors are also making similar moves to enhance their data capabilities and cloud offerings. SAP’s acquisition of Signavio was directly aimed at enhancing its process management and data analytics capabilities, enabling better data-driven decision-making. Additionally, SAP has been focusing on its Data Intelligence solution to help organizations manage complex data landscapes.
Microsoft’s acquisition of Nuance similarly sought to improve its AI and data capabilities in the healthcare industry, enhancing the ability to analyze clinical data. Microsoft has also been expanding Azure Synapse Analytics, a comprehensive data analytics service that integrates big data and data warehousing.
By enhancing its data migration, management and analytics capabilities, Infor is right on track with its biggest competitors, with the goal of taking advantage of a robust data foundation for its cloud solutions.
“Infor’s strategy remains fiercely focused on helping customers unlock core value drivers within their industry-specific operations,” said Infor CEO Kevin Samuelson. “The next wave of innovation is completely data-driven and generating real value from it begins with a secure industry-rich data foundation.”
