As we move through 2025, several important trends are shaping how businesses handle strategic planning, governance, and risk management. These trends show the growing role of technology, the changing rules businesses must follow, and the ongoing effects of global events on business operations.
In this article, we will look at the key trends that are helping shape the future of business strategy.
Trend 1: The Role of AI in Strategic Planning
The use of AI in strategic planning continues to grow, with more real-world uses becoming common.
AI is now being used to help with scenario planning, test controls against new rules, and even draft early versions of business strategies.
Some platforms, like BSC Designer, are using AI not only to track metrics but also to help build strategic models.
As more companies rely on external AI tools, the risk of losing control over sensitive data is increasing. To reduce this risk, many businesses are choosing to run AI tools on their own systems, separate from outside networks.
As AI becomes more common in planning, managing AI use, following rules, and handling risks will be key concerns for organizations.
Trend 2: Changes in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
New rules around the world are bringing big changes to how businesses manage risk and stay in compliance.
New European regulations such as the CSDDD (2026), DORA, and CSRD are pushing companies to update their risk and compliance strategies.
There is a strong push for better transparency with stakeholders, improved risk handling, and better alignment between internal controls and business strategy.
Companies are now making sure their GRC efforts support their larger strategic goals.
Major conferences focused on GRC and related technology show how important this area has become.
Trend 3: Climate Change and Its Effect on Supply Chains
More extreme weather events are disrupting supply chains and daily business operations, causing companies to rethink their plans.
Recent heatwaves in India and floods in places like Spain, Brazil, and the UAE have led to major interruptions.
Industries like air travel are facing stronger turbulence, and some areas are dealing with repeated flooding, including major centers like Dubai.
To stay ready, businesses are updating their continuity plans to cover more than just IT. They’re adding broader strategies for dealing with disasters.
Risk models are also being updated to include the growing chances of climate-related problems.
Trend 4: Cybersecurity and Managing Vendor Risks
Cybersecurity remains a key concern, with companies paying closer attention to their vendors and improving their own security systems.
Past breaches like the SolarWinds and CrowdStrike incidents in 2024 showed how weaknesses in supply chains can affect many businesses.
Because of this, companies are improving how they check and manage vendor security.
More internal controls are being added to make sure that cybersecurity is part of the overall business strategy.
To deal with rising risks, businesses are using tools like cybersecurity scorecards and recovery plans to limit damage from future attacks.
Trend 5: Aligning Strategies with All Stakeholders
Making sure strategies match across partners, investors, and other stakeholders is becoming more important.
Economic uncertainty has led to more mergers and business deals, which require strong strategic alignment.
Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 is now a focus for businesses in all industries.
In strategic and consultative sales, matching the broader company strategy is key for long-term results.
Companies are working to make sure their plans support their stakeholders’ goals, which leads to better teamwork and more unified strategies.
Trend 6: Using AI in Strategy and the Need for Transparency
AI is being used more in tools that help automate strategy, but there is growing concern about how clearly its use is explained.
Vendors are adding AI to tools that scan for future trends and help with planning, although some tools may be more suited to project tracking than actual strategy work.
Many organizations now want to know exactly how AI is used in these tools. If vendors can’t explain it clearly, businesses may choose not to work with them.
Instead of using just one planning method, companies are now combining several approaches—like the Balanced Scorecard, OKRs, and Hoshin Kanri—to better handle complex situations.
Trend 7: A Stronger Focus on Internal Controls
As rules and regulations continue to grow, companies are working harder to improve their internal controls.
Organizations are building stronger internal systems to meet the needs of changing rules.
These controls are being closely linked with risk strategies to improve both compliance and protection.
Trend 8: Local Data Storage and Private Cloud Use
With concerns about cybersecurity and changing rules, more businesses are focusing on keeping data local.
Companies are choosing private cloud systems to lower risk and meet local data storage laws.
Protecting data and following local laws are top priorities as businesses look for safer ways to handle information.
Trend 9: Moving Away from Global Supply Chains
Deglobalization is changing how companies build supply chains and plan their operations.
Due to tensions between countries, weather problems, and security risks, companies are looking at more local or regional supply options.
There is a growing trend toward sourcing and producing goods closer to where they’re used, to avoid problems with global networks.
Wrapping Up
From the growing use of AI to the need for better risk management and governance, businesses must be ready to adjust as things change. By following these important trends, companies can stay prepared and ready to face future challenges.
