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SPARK Matrix™ – Strategic Performance
Assessment and Ranking

A quadrant-based evaluation framework that empowers decision-makers with deep, data-driven
insights into vendor performance across innovation, customer impact, and market relevance. 

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What is SPARK Matrix™?

SPARK Matrix™ (Strategic Performance Assessment and Ranking) is QKS Group’s proprietary evaluation framework designed to analyze and rank technology vendors based on two critical dimensions:

  • Technology Excellence
  • Customer Impact
It provides a visual and strategic comparison of leading solution providers, making it easier for businesses to identify the right technology partners aligned with their goals.

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The Only Analyst Firm Delivering Regional Market Clarity

Regional SPARK Matrix™

QKS Group is the only analyst firm in the world that produces dedicated SPARK Matrix™ evaluations for key global regions.
We recognize that buyer needs, vendor maturity, and competitive landscapes vary across markets and so should your vendor intelligence.

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Domain-Driven Insights for Industry-Specific Decision Making

Industry SPARK Matrix™

QKS Group is the only analyst firm in the world that produces dedicated SPARK Matrix™ Our Industry SPARK Matrix™ delivers targeted analysis based on the real-world operational and compliance needs unique to each sector.

How Does SPARK Matrix™ Stand Out?

A Framework Built for Clarity and Credibility.
SPARK Matrix™ is more than a quadrant, it’s a multi-dimensional market positioning tool built to reflect the realities of modern B2B tech evaluation. Here’s what makes it unique:

3x2 Strategic Matrix Design

Unlike traditional 2x2 grids, SPARK Matrix™ uses a 3x2 quadrant structure, categorizing vendors into:

  • Leaders & Emerging Leaders – High Technology Excellence & High Customer Impact
  • Contenders & Strong Contenders – Strong potential with growing customer traction
  • Aspirants – Emerging players still developing key capabilities
This layered structure enables a more nuanced and realistic vendor assessment.

Unique Recognitions

We go beyond the matrix with analyst-recognized categories:

  • Emerging Innovator – Recognizes vendors bringing disruptive innovation despite limited current adoption.
  • Ace Performer – Highlights vendors delivering exceptional customer satisfaction or performance in specific regional or industry segments.

Stand out in a crowded market.

SPARK Matrix™ Badges: A Mark of Leadership 

Vendors featured in the SPARK Matrix™ receive exclusive digital badges that signify their ranking across global, regional, and industry-specific matrices.
These badges serve as trusted symbols of excellence, credibility, and innovation

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Ranked #2 Globally for Vendor Reprints

Global Ranking

QKS Group is the #2 most referenced analyst firm in the world by reprint volume, just after Gartner and ahead of Forrester.

Our SPARK Matrix™ reports are consistently licensed and redistributed by top vendors to build buyer trust, strengthen their GTM, and support analyst-backed selling.

Global Ranking

Source: QKS Group analysis, 2024. Based on vendor-licensed reprints and publicly available reprint data.

Research Methodology

Curious about our evaluation criteria?
Our methodology blends vendor briefings, customer references, market intelligence, and proprietary scoring frameworks.

Global Ranking

Trusted by Leading Global Vendors

Global leaders trust QKS Group to deliver insights that drive growth, innovation, and competitive advantage.

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Our three-year collaboration with the QKS Group has consistently added value for SER Group, thanks to their comprehensive analysis and practical insights. Their team has demonstrated strong industry knowledge and a proactive, collaborative approach that has aligned well with our business objectives. QKS has proven reliable in providing timely and accurate market intelligence to inform our strategic decisions. We value their commitment to quality and look forward to continuing our productive working relationship.

John Bates

CEO, SER Group

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We’ve been working with the analyst team at QKS Group for just over a year and have been consistently impressed by the depth and quality of their analysis. Recently, we expanded our engagement with them and are excited about the enhanced market insights and strategic intelligence this partnership will continue to provide.

Annie Cashman

Principal, Analyst Relations Trintech

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For the past two years, Vena has had a highly positive experience working with QKS Group. Our interactions with their analyst team, account management, and client management teams have consistently demonstrated expertise and professionalism. We greatly value their expert opinions and highly recommend their services to any organization

Nicole Diceman

Director Product Marketing, Vena Solutions

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Purchasing the distribution rights for a QKS Group's report has been a pivotal move for GFT. QKS's rigorous analysis and comprehensive research have enhanced our market credibility significantly. Their team is knowledgeable and approachable, making the entire process smooth and beneficial. I highly recommend Quadrant for their reliable insights and exceptional support in navigating complex market landscapes.

Melon Marta

Analyst Relation and Global Manager, GFT Technologies