In 2025, marketing productivity is under the spotlight. With growing pressure from CFOs to deliver measurable impact, CMOs are turning to data, AI, and automation to drive marketing productivity in 2025 and maximize ROI.
The latest data from Gartner and Duke University, shared by eMarketer, reveals how CMOs are responding to these demands in real time.
Key Insight from Gartner
41% of CMOs in North America and Europe say they leveraged data, analytics, and measurement to optimize marketing performance—the most common tactic followed by AI, according to March 2025 data from Gartner.
This insight makes it clear: data isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Performance visibility is the backbone of decision-making in 2025.
Why ROI Is Now a Strategic Priority
CMOs are under pressure from CFOs to prove ROI, which results in data and measurement being such a high priority.
The alignment between marketing and finance is tighter than ever. With accountability rising, CMOs are investing in real-time analytics, refining attribution models, and pushing harder on what’s provable—not just what’s possible.
AI Adoption is Rising—With Caution
AI is powering 17.2% of marketing efforts, according to Duke, but adoption has been limited due to the learning curve and challenges integrating it into existing workflows.
From content generation to customer segmentation, its adoption is expanding steadily.—but many teams are still grappling with how to embed AI into day-to-day operations. The tech is here. The playbook is still evolving.
How to Use This Chart Strategically
CMOs and C-suite execs can use this chart to prioritize data and automation to unlock efficiency, reassess resource allocation to focus on high-ROI efforts, and prioritize team training.
To act on this data, executives are:
- Reducing silos and duplication in marketing org structures
- Building cross-functional analytics teams
- Automating repetitive tasks to free up strategic thinking
- Redirecting budgets to high-performing channels
- Investing in AI upskilling and change management
Related EMARKETER Reports
- How CMOs Balance Brand Integrity and Bravery
- How CMOs Are Using AI to Transform Their Strategies
These reports expand on the core trends influencing marketing leadership in 2025 and beyond.
More from Chart of the Day
- 6/25 – Sick of screens
- 6/24 – Global retail media giants
- 6/23 – Influencer budget boom
- 6/20 – Where Gen Z clicks
- 6/19 – Down with OTT
EMARKETER offers over 3,000 charts spanning digital trends, ecommerce, Gen Z behavior, AI, and more. Clients use them to:
- Improve campaign planning and forecasting
- Enhance strategy presentations
- Support investor pitches
- Inform internal resource planning
Final Thought from Strategy ReCheck
The takeaway is simple: Marketing productivity in 2025 is defined by data, ROI, and automation. CMOs that lead with performance, empower their teams, and embrace AI with intent will shape the next wave of growth.
Was this email forwarded to you?
Subscribe here to receive strategy-backed insights from Strategy ReCheck—every week.