Life Sciences Firms Adapt to Change with AI, Partnerships — ISG - July 16, 2025
Life sciences organizations are using AI and other emerging technologies to become more agile, innovative and patient-centric, according to a new research report published today by Information Services Group (ISG), a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm.
The 2025 ISG Provider Lens global Life Sciences Digital Services report finds that clinical trials, manufacturing, patient engagement and other activities in the industry are being transformed to meet changing expectations. Telehealth is making some operations more flexible, while increasing regulation and sustainability goals are creating demand for new solutions. Contract research organizations (CROs) play a growing role in the industry, often at the forefront of innovation.
“Digital transformation is changing what it means to be a leading life sciences enterprise,” said Jenn Stein, ISG partner and life sciences industry lead. “Life sciences companies want to move faster, understand unique patient needs and automate processes to be more responsive. Those that can adapt to the new challenges will thrive.”
Rohan Sinha, principal analyst at ISG
Companies are going beyond traditional automation by deploying AI agents for clinical development, patient engagement and regulatory affairs, the report says. These self-learning systems continuously optimize processes and provide insights that improve decision-making. Benefits include better prediction of patient needs, streamlined clinical trials and compliance with evolving regulations.
In clinical development, AI is speeding up the design of trial protocols and improving oversight and documentation, ISG says. Telemedicine, real-time data capture and wearable devices enable decentralized and hybrid trials, which change the role of patients, integrating trials into their lives and allowing for broader participation. Through telehealth platforms and personalized communication, companies are building continuous, proactive relationships with patients.
Real-time data, AI-based surveillance and automation are changing the way life sciences organizations monitor and respond to safety requirements, the report says. Modern pharmacovigilance systems provide new ways to process safety data, submit documentation and remain prepared for audits. Pharmacovigilance tools are increasingly aligned with regulatory platforms, forming a digital backbone that allows companies to act quickly and scale up easily.
CROs and life sciences enterprises are working together more closely in a wide range of activities, shifting from purely transactional relationships to true partnerships, ISG says. CROs are involved in clinical development, patient engagement, compliance and other functions, often introducing AI capabilities to improve outcomes.
“Life sciences companies depend on CROs more than ever, especially for engaging with participants in decentralized trials,” said Rohan Sinha, principal analyst at ISG and co-author of the report. “Strategic partnerships are essential in this increasingly complex industry.”
The report also explores other trends in the life sciences industry, including the role of GenAI in personalized customer experience and the growing importance of automation and sustainability in life sciences manufacturing.
To learn more, visit: www.isg-one.com