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81% Face Data Challenges: Is Data-Driven Marketing The Answer ?

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A new report from PGM Solutions reveals big data challenges for marketers. Released on October 1, 2025, the 2026 B2C Marketing Audience Building Report shows 81% of marketers struggle with data.

The study, done with Ascend2, highlights how top performers use diverse data and intent signals to boost results. Success in 2026 hinges on clean, actionable data for better personalization and timing.

Data-Driven Marketing: Data Struggles Hold Back Campaigns

Data-Driven Marketing

Most marketers hit roadblocks. Accurate data for personalization is tough for 57%. Combining sources stumps 47%. Yet leaders shine by mixing data types. They lean on intent data and keep it clean.

This drives better customer targeting. The report urges smarter strategies. Top brands act now to stay ahead in a crowded market.

Key Findings for Data-Driven Marketing

The report breaks down what works:

  • Data Diversity Grows: First-party data leads at 63%. Third-party use jumps 6% to 31%. Intent data rises 7% to 36%.
  • Intent Data Boosts: Top users see 34% better personalization (vs. 22%) and 37% stronger acquisition (vs. 28%).
  • Clean Data Wins: 58% prioritize quality, up from 54%. Top performers use hygiene tools (75% vs. 51%). They’re 5x happier with data (65% vs. 13%).
  • Top Performers Excel: They use intent data 2.6x more (51% vs. 19%). Combine all data types for impact.
  • Actionable Focus: Mix first-party and intent data for precise, timely campaigns.

Path to 2026 Success

Michelle Taves, PGM’s VP, stresses relevance. “Success needs diverse data,” she says. Leaders mix sources to know customer wants. Larisa Bedgood, Head of Marketing, adds, “Don’t chase more data. Chase actionable data.”

PGM helps with enriched first-party insights. It covers consumers, movers, and intent. This builds strong segments. Campaigns hit harder across channels. Marketers see gains in acquisition and retention. Data-driven marketing rules 2026. Start clean, stay smart, and win big.

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Jitendra Vaswani is a well-known expert in SEO and AI-driven digital marketing. He has spoken at international events and founded Digiexe, a digital marketing agency, and AffiliateBooster, WordPress plugin designed specifically for affiliate marketers. With over 10 years of experience, Jitendra has helped many businesses succeed online. His bestselling book, Inside A Hustler’s Brain: In Pursuit of Financial Freedom, with over 20,000 copies sold globally, underscores his influence and commitment to empowering digital marketers.