Top 10 PEX Network articles of 2025

With 2026 just around the corner, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 PEX Network articles of 2025!

This list features the most-viewed articles published on our site this year. It reflects the vast importance of and interest in artificial intelligence (AI) as well as the ongoing demand for content exploring topics such as process mining, business process management (BPM), digital transformation, operational excellence (OPEX), and Lean Six Sigma.

We hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane, and we look forward to bringing you more original, thought-provoking content as we head into 2026!

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1. The top 30 AI leaders to follow in 2025

In February, PEX Network published its list of the 30 AI leaders to follow in 2025. The team carefully selected individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions in AI-driven process excellence. Criteria for selection included expertise, impact on their industry, thought leadership, published work, and global influence. This list highlights a diverse range of professionals, from researchers and analysts to C-suite executives and pioneers in AI ethics and automation.

2. 7 free agentic AI training courses for business leaders

Agentic AI has been one of the biggest buzz terms of the year. Agentic AI marks a significant shift in how businesses can leverage technology. Unlike traditional AI tools that require step-by-step instructions or operate within narrow constraints, agentic AI systems are capable of autonomous decision-making, strategic goal pursuit, and proactive execution. In May, we highlighted seven free agentic AI training courses that will help you stay ahead of the game and lead your business into an AI-powered future.

3. 7 free agentic AI tools for achieving process excellence

Also in May, PEX Network compiled a list of seven standout platforms redefining how businesses can integrate AI-powered agents across their workflows – no licensing fees or code required. The tools include CrewAI, OpenAI Operator, AutoGPT, and Beam AI. 

4. What is process mining?

In March, we published a new guide to process mining, exploring how process mining uses event data to optimize workflows, improve efficiency, and drive business success. Outlining key trends, opportunities, challenges, and real examples, the article is the complete guide to process mining in 2025. 

As Nina van Krimpen, business process consultant at chemicals company LyondellBasell, put it: “Process mining provides end-to-end process transparency and visibility, helping organizations compare what they think is happening within their business with what is actually happening. The technology is also a great tool for global process owners to understand the level of standardization and maturity of end-to-end processes across a business. The aim of the technology is to have a tool that will show you where you are and what you need to do.”

Watch this panel and explore the practical aspects of implementing process mining projects!

5. The top 50 business transformation leaders to follow in 2025

In August, we published our second leaders list of the year, this time focusing on business transformation. We recognized 50 business leaders driving transformation today. Again, the team carefully curated this list based on a range of criteria, including proven impact, leadership in transformation strategy, thought leadership, and contributions to the global business transformation community. The leaders are guiding organizations through complex change with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and human-centered progress.

6. What is business process management (BPM)? The PEX Network guide

In another comprehensive guide, we explored the topic of BPM by highlighting everything you need to know about the methodology, from its criteria for success and benefits, to real world examples of its application. The article examines why BPM remains an essential strategy in process excellence, with organizations leveraging BPM practices to streamline operations, enhance automation, and achieve digital transformation. It also outlines how advances in AI-driven automation, process mining, and intelligent BPM suites are enabling businesses to optimize their processes with unprecedented precision and agility.

7. Walmart’s AI strategy: Key lessons from David Glick

In February, we examined how Walmart’s AI strategy balances innovation, OPEX, and the build versus buy debate. At OPEX Week 2025, David Glick, SVP of enterprise business services at Walmart, delivered an insightful session on digital transformation, AI adoption, and the strategic decision on between building versus buying enterprise solutions. Glick emphasized Walmart’s unique position as a technology-driven retail giant, stating that its scale places it in the same conversation as companies like Meta.

“What we want at the end of the day are actual implementations that make sense for the business, the customer, and the associate,” Glick said. His perspective aligns with recent findings from McKinsey, which highlight that successful AI implementations focus on practical business outcomes rather than novelty.

Watch David Glick discuss AI at Walmart!

8. Lean Six Sigma’s relevance in 2025: A contemporary guide to organizational excellence

Lean Six Sigma continues to provide a proven framework that’s flexible enough to address new challenges. In May, PEX Network contributor Nikhil Pal explored Lean Six Sigma’s ongoing relevance in 2025. Pal outlined how Lean Six Sigma addresses two fundamental business issues that never go away: minimizing waste and reducing variation. In fact, these requirements are more paramount (not less) in today’s digital age. 

“Having spent two decades consulting with firms rolling out process improvement methodologies, I can say that Lean Six Sigma is not just surviving in 2025 – it’s flourishing,” he wrote.

9. Air New Zealand takes flight with AI-focused digital transformation strategy

In March, Air New Zealand announced plans to transform its digital infrastructure and put AI at the heart of its operations. In a five-year digital transformation partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Air New Zealand seeks to enhance its digital capabilities, improve customer experience, and drive operational efficiencies across various aspects of the business including fleet management, crew scheduling and ground services.

“Leveraging TCS’ expertise in cutting-edge technologies will help us enhance the customer experience, streamline operations, and reinforce our commitment to cyber security and data protection,” said Greg Foran, CEO of Air New Zealand.

10. Leading change: 3 key trends from OPEX Week 2025

In February, PEX Network compiled key insights on strategy, AI, and leadership from OPEX Week 2025. First, transformation must be an ongoing journey guided by a clear strategic vision. Second, AI, particularly agentic AI, is revolutionizing operations but requires responsible adoption. Finally, human leadership remains the driving force behind lasting change.

PEX Report 2025/26: Global state of business transformation

The PEX Report 2025/26 examines the results of our annual survey of more than 200 professionals with insights from more than a dozen industry business and thought leaders from across the globe. Contributors include leaders from Mars, Navy Federal Credit Union, Pacific International Lines, Sodexo, SAP and Nintex!

Explore why true business transformation is not a singular project but an ongoing journey, one that requires visionary leadership, cross-functional collaboration, technological prowess and an unrelenting commitment to agility and innovation. Those that embrace this evolution holistically are not just surviving the future, they are shaping it!

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