IDG Information Services

From Opportunity to Reality: IDC’s AI-Powered Buyer Platform

IDC has long been known for its deep technology research and trusted analyst insights. But as the IT landscape—and IDC’s business—shifted toward faster, more self-directed decision-making, the company set its sights on building digital products that could serve a new generation of buyers.

DesignMap partnered with IDC at a pivotal moment: to help translate directional growth opportunities into a compelling go to market product.

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The Ask

As IDC evolved beyond its legacy of analyst research into a new era of digital products, it needed to move fast. The goal: transform Bain-identified growth opportunities into a differentiated, AI-powered buyer platform for the underserved mid-market IT segment—a $2B opportunity waiting to be unlocked.

IDG Buyer Testing

Process

DesignMap built on initial strategic signals with deep qualitative research and concept testing to understand mid-market buyer needs, behaviors, and key decision drivers. We facilitated alignment across evolving stakeholders—from the CEO to new product leads—to define the ideal customer profile, co-create a product vision, and shape a lovable user experience. Key features like AI-enabled onboarding, smart requirement generation, and collaborative decision-making were refined through iterative prototyping and feedback.

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IDG Buyer Mock

Outcomes

The result was a focused, delightful product that brings clarity and confidence to IT purchasing decisions—now live in the market and actively used by customers. We helped IDC align teams, de-risk decisions, and move from ambiguity to execution with confidence. The launched platform now anchors IDC’s shift into digital-first offerings, serving a previously untapped segment with an experience that is fast, intelligent, and user-centered.

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