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Integrated software platforms are gaining critical strategic importance for AI-enabled modernization of complex hybrid and multicloud IT estates, according to new research from Information Services Group (ISG). Enterprises are moving away from fragmented toolchains toward unified platforms that embed generative AI, machine learning, and robust governance to improve integration, accelerate delivery, and strengthen control across development and operations.
Enterprises increasingly seek consistent integration, governance, and lifecycle management for diverse applications spread across hybrid and multicloud setups. ISG research shows providers responding with standards-based connectivity, unified governance, and AI-assisted execution to support API- and event-driven architectures.
Cloud-native platforms now dominate, enabling interoperability in containerized and multicloud environments. AI is embedded throughout workflows, from developer assistance (code generation, testing, documentation) to operational intelligence (release analysis, anomaly detection, runtime optimization).
“Platform consolidation is no longer an efficiency play. It is now a structural necessity,” said Jeff Orr, director of research, IT and technologies, at ISG. “Enterprises are replacing fragmented toolchains with platforms that combine AI-assisted execution with strong governance.”
ISG rates providers in Overall, Product Experience (Capability and Platform), and Customer Experience categories, naming Leaders based on top-three rankings and assigning Exemplary or Innovative designations.
Application Platforms (13 providers): Overall Leaders: Microsoft (top), ServiceNow, Salesforce. All three rated Exemplary, along with Oracle and Zendesk; Google Cloud and Zoho rated Innovative.
AI-Driven Development Platforms – Established Providers (32 providers): AI-Driven AppDev Platforms Overall Leaders: Microsoft (top), Appian, Pegasystems. AI-Driven DevOps Platforms Overall Leaders: Microsoft (top), Google Cloud, AWS. Multiple Exemplary ratings include Airtable, Salesforce, ServiceNow, UiPath, and Zoho.
AI-Driven Development Platforms – Emerging Providers (12 providers): AI-Driven AppDev Platforms Overall Leaders: GeneXus (top), Betty Blocks, Thinkwise. AI-Driven DevOps Platforms Overall Leaders: Octopus (top), CloudBees, Buildkite. GeneXus, Betty Blocks, Octopus, and CloudBees rated Exemplary.
Intelligent Automation Platforms – Established Providers (37 providers): Process Intelligence Platforms Overall Leaders: Appian (top), Microsoft, Automation Anywhere. Intelligent Document Processing Platforms Overall Leaders: Appian (top), Microsoft, ServiceNow. Automation and Orchestration Platforms Overall Leaders: Microsoft (top), Appian, Automation Anywhere/Pegasystems (tie). Several Exemplary ratings include Celonis, IBM, UiPath, and Zendesk.
Intelligent Automation Platforms – Emerging Providers (24 providers): Process Intelligence Platforms Overall Leaders: QPR Software (top), Apromore, Hubbl. Intelligent Document Processing Platforms Overall Leaders: Nanonets (top), Rossum, Indico Data. Automation and Orchestration Platforms Overall Leaders: Kognitos (top), Nanonets, Gumloop. Multiple Exemplary ratings among emerging providers.
ISG advises prioritizing platforms with enterprise-grade control, strong governance features (vulnerability management, data privacy), and clear AI guardrails—including responsible use policies and human-in-the-loop oversight—to balance automation benefits with compliance and safety.
“Integrated, AI-enabled software platforms are becoming foundational to enterprise operations, adaptation and growth,” said David Menninger, executive director, software research, ISG. “This research examines both established and emerging providers and their products in depth, establishing AI capability as a core requirement and giving organizations the insights they need to select the platforms that will best suit their needs.”
About ISG
ISG is a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm. A trusted partner to more than 900 clients, including 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is a long-time leader in technology and business services that is now at the forefront of leveraging AI to help organizations achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm, founded in 2006, is known for its proprietary market data, in-depth knowledge of provider ecosystems, and the expertise of its 1,600 professionals worldwide working together to help clients maximize the value of their technology investments.
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