Data analytics is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a business imperative. In Singapore’s digital-first economy, companies are racing to turn data into insights that drive smarter decisions, boost productivity, and reduce costs.
But here’s the catch: implementing analytics isn’t always smooth sailing.
In this edition of SIFT Analytics Talk Series, we unpack the most common challenges that businesses in Singapore face when rolling out analytics — from siloed systems and high costs to talent shortages and data governance issues. More importantly, we’ll explore how to overcome them, using best practices and modern tools.
Whether you’re just starting your analytics journey or scaling an existing setup, this guide will help you avoid common pitfalls and unlock real value from your data.
The Problem
You can’t analyze what you can’t access. Many Singaporean businesses — especially those with multiple departments or legacy systems — struggle with data silos. Finance, HR, sales, marketing, and operations often operate on different platforms that don’t talk to each other.
This leads to:
Why It Matters
Siloed data slows down reporting, increases errors, and limits the potential of analytics tools like Power BI, Tableau, or Qlik.
In a fast-moving business environment, waiting days (or even weeks) to gather and clean data means missed opportunities.
The Solution
Modern data integration platforms – Unify data from cloud apps, spreadsheets, CRMs, and ERPs — no manual coding required.
APIs and connectors make it easier to sync real-time data across systems.
Data warehouses – Centralize your analytics-ready data in one place.
The Problem
Singapore is home to a growing number of analytics roles — but the demand far outweighs the supply.
From data engineers to machine learning specialists, the talent gap is real. According to recent surveys, talent shortage is the #1 barrier to successful data initiatives for many companies in the region.
This often leads to:
Why It Matters
Even with the best tools, you need people who can:
Without this bridge between data and decisions, you risk low adoption and limited ROI.
The Solution
Citizen data scientist enablement — Equip business users with no-code/low-code tools to explore data without relying on IT.
Upskilling and training — Partner with vendors (like SIFT Analytics) for workshops, certifications, and hands-on labs.
Outsourcing and managed services — Bring in experts to set up and guide your analytics function until your internal team is ready.
The Problem
Many companies hesitate to invest in data analytics because of perceived high costs — from software licenses and cloud storage to hiring data teams and consultants.
For SMEs in Singapore, budgets are often tight. Some fear that analytics is a luxury only large enterprises can afford.
Why It Matters
The longer businesses delay adopting analytics, the more they fall behind in efficiency, customer experience, and competitiveness.
Without analytics, you’re operating on guesswork — which can be far more expensive in the long run.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the technical, financial, and organizational hurdles of analytics implementation. But the payoff — higher productivity, faster insights, and smarter decisions — is worth it.
The key is to treat analytics as a journey, not a one-time project.
At SIFT Analytics, we help Singaporean businesses overcome these challenges every day. From assessing your current data maturity to implementing powerful tools and training your team — we’re with you every step of the way.
Not sure where to start with data integration? Struggling with adoption? Concerned about cost?
Talk to SIFT Analytics — and let us help you build a practical, scalable analytics strategy that delivers real business results.
SIFT Analytics – data analytics challenges in Singapore – data governance best practice – affordable analytics services
Connect with SIFT Analytics
As organisations strive to meet the demands of the digital era, SIFT remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering transformative solutions. To explore digital transformation possibilities or learn more about SIFT’s pioneering work, contact the team for a complimentary consultation. Visit the website at www.sift-ag.com for additional information.
About SIFT Analytics
Get a glimpse into the future of business with SIFT Analytics, where smarter data analytics driven by smarter software solution is key. With our end-to-end solution framework backed by active intelligence, we strive towards providing clear, immediate and actionable insights for your organisation.
Headquartered in Singapore since 1999, with over 500 corporate clients, in the region, SIFT Analytics is your trusted partner in delivering reliable enterprise solutions, paired with best-of-breed technology throughout your business analytics journey. Together with our experienced teams, we will journey. Together with you to integrate and govern your data, to predict future outcomes and optimise decisions, and to achieve the next generation of efficiency and innovation.
The Analytics Times
“The Analytics Times is your source for the latest trends, insights, and breaking news in the world of data analytics. Stay informed with in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and the most up-to-date information shaping the future of analytics.
Published by SIFT Analytics
SIFT Marketing Team
marketing@sift-ag.com
+65 6295 0112
SIFT Analytics Group
Explore our latest insights
