The Finnish market for business analytics encompassing business intelligence tools, analytical applications, and data warehouse applications, had a very good year in 2007 with growth of 9.6%.

"The business analytics market performed well above the overall software market," said Brian Troelsen, research manager at IDC Nordic, "with strong growth in the most important market segments."

However, going forward the market picture becomes more blurred due to the impact of a potential financial downturn. "Traditional heavy users of business intelligence tools in particular can be found in the financial sector and vendors may experience increased difficulty in selling into this and other vulnerable verticals," said Troelsen.

"The market has been further characterized by an unprecedented consolidation. "It is essential that these consolidators quickly structure their future product roadmap to avoid customer confusion. If not, this creates a significant opportunity for the remaining vendors to exploit any customer uncertainties to gain market share."