R&D Insights: How Salesforce, Inc. and Fortive Corporation Allocate Funds

R&D Spending: A Tale of Two Giants

In the ever-evolving tech landscape, research and development (R&D) is the lifeblood of innovation. Over the past decade, Salesforce, Inc. and Fortive Corporation have demonstrated contrasting approaches to R&D investment. From 2014 to 2023, Salesforce's R&D expenses surged by over 700%, peaking in 2023 with a staggering $5 billion, reflecting its commitment to staying at the forefront of cloud computing and customer relationship management. In contrast, Fortive's R&D spending remained relatively stable, with a modest 3% increase over the same period, highlighting a more conservative approach. This divergence underscores Salesforce's aggressive growth strategy compared to Fortive's steady, incremental innovation. Notably, 2024 data for Fortive is missing, suggesting a potential shift or reevaluation in their R&D strategy. As these companies continue to navigate the competitive tech industry, their R&D investments will be pivotal in shaping their future trajectories.