The business landscape of 2025 feels less like a clear roadmap and more like navigating through a dense fog. Economic shifts, technological disruptions, geopolitical tensions – the factors contributing to organizational uncertainty are numerous and constantly evolving. In such an environment, where the ground beneath our feet seems to shift with increasing frequency, the ability to understand, adapt, and strategize becomes paramount for survival and growth.
For professionals in commercial and contract management, this uncertainty manifests in tangible ways. We see extended contract cycle times as organizations exercise greater caution and scrutiny. Our 2023 data revealed that the average cycle time for medium-complexity domestic contracts was 11.6 weeks, and for international contracts, it was 13.7 weeks. These figures, a slight increase for domestic agreements compared to 2021, highlight the significant time investment even in moderately complex deals. This can translate to delayed revenue and missed opportunities, especially in an uncertain market where agility is key.
We grapple with increased risks as unforeseen events impact supply chains and contractual obligations. To accommodate the unpredictable, we strive for greater agility and flexibility in our agreements.
In this climate of ambiguity, reliable data and collective intelligence become invaluable compasses. This is precisely where the WorldCC Benchmark Survey steps in, offering a beacon of clarity in the fog of uncertainty. Your participation in the 2025 survey is not just an exercise in data collection; it's a vital contribution to a shared understanding that empowers our entire community to navigate these challenging times more effectively.
Think about the broader responsibilities of contract and commercial management teams. Our 2023 survey showed that the top three areas of responsibility were drafting/developing contracts (15%), negotiating (14%), and bid review/input (7%). The current uncertainty undoubtedly impacts these core functions. Are negotiations taking longer? Is the focus shifting in bid reviews? The 2025 survey will provide crucial insights into how these fundamental activities are adapting.
The value of the Benchmark Survey extends beyond cycle times and responsibilities. Organizations are increasingly turning to technology to enhance efficiency and performance. The 2023 data highlighted that the major area of use for Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) systems is as a contract repository. However, beyond this, organizations are focused on the contract execution phase (drafting, negotiation, and approval), obligation management and performance monitoring, and contract initiation and intake. Understanding the adoption and impact of these functionalities in the current uncertain climate will be invaluable. Are organizations leaning more heavily on CLM for risk management or compliance monitoring in response to increased volatility?
Even before the current wave of uncertainty, the 2023 data hinted at the strategic priorities for CCM teams, which included improving internal processes, raising the skills of current staff/attracting and retaining talent, and demonstrating business value and contribution. These priorities likely remain, but the lens of uncertainty adds a new dimension. Are organizations prioritizing process optimization to build resilience? Is talent development focused on skills needed to navigate complex and unpredictable scenarios?
Furthermore, the barriers identified in the 2023 survey – operational workload, budget constraints, and establishing data to demonstrate value – are likely amplified in the current environment. Understanding how these barriers are impacting strategic progress in the face of uncertainty is crucial for WorldCC to provide relevant support and resources.
Your participation in the WorldCC Benchmark Survey is an act of collective empowerment. By sharing your experiences and data, you contribute to a robust knowledge base that benefits every member of our community. This collective intelligence allows WorldCC to:
- Identify emerging trends in uncertainty management: The 2025 survey will illuminate the innovative approaches and strategies organizations are adopting to mitigate risks and navigate uncertainty in their commercial relationships.
- Develop targeted resources for current pain points: By understanding your specific challenges, WorldCC can tailor its webinars, workshops, and publications to provide practical solutions and guidance relevant to the current environment.
- Create a powerful advocacy voice: A comprehensive dataset strengthens our ability to advocate for the importance of effective commercial and contract management within the broader business landscape, especially during times of economic volatility.
- Foster peer-to-peer learning and collaboration: The survey results provide a foundation for meaningful discussions and the sharing of best practices within our community, enabling you to learn from the experiences of others navigating similar uncertainties.
Don't let your organization's experience in these uncertain times go unrepresented. Take the time to participate in the 2025 WorldCC Benchmark Survey today: worldcc.info/benchmark-2025. Your contribution, no matter the size of your organization, is a valuable investment in your own success and the collective progress of our community. Let's navigate the fog of uncertainty together, armed with knowledge and the power of our shared experiences.