CompTIA's latest IT Industry Outlook 2026 report reveals strong optimism among technology and business professionals, with a net 77% expressing confidence in their organization's prospects for the year ahead. Surveying over 1,000 respondents, the study highlights operational efficiencies, AI adoption, and workforce development as key drivers for growth amid economic uncertainties.
The report identifies five pivotal trends influencing business and technology decisions:
"Operational improvements are impacted by performance in each of these five areas," said Seth Robinson, vice president, industry research, CompTIA. "Artificial intelligence adoption may become a top factor in these improvements, but workflow transformation and skills building will also be necessary ingredients in positive outcomes, with cybersecurity the overarching consideration."
Over half (54%) of organizations report partially digitized workflows and ongoing efforts in automation. Optimism stems largely from anticipated efficiencies, with top factors including improved operations (51%), AI productivity gains (45%), and expanded customer reach (45%).
External challenges such as economic uncertainty, trade issues, and reduced customer spending temper expectations, yet internal advancements provide a counterbalance.
AI emerges as a dominant force, with 84% expecting increased investments and nearly all (net 94%) planning AI-specific training. Companies recognize the need to manage total implementation costs while building workforces capable of extracting business value.
Cybersecurity priorities include data security (52%), analysis (43%), AI operations protection (42%), and risk management (42%), necessitating robust talent development.
Data capabilities remain underdeveloped for many, prompting half of firms to invest in specialist training, broad data literacy programs, and infrastructure upgrades.
Training existing employees, often paired with industry certifications, is the favored strategy for addressing skills gaps, leveraging institutional knowledge in evolving AI landscapes.
CompTIA's findings underscore a year where blending technology adoption with human expertise will determine success in navigating digital transformation.
About CompTIA
CompTIA Inc. is the world's leading provider of vendor-neutral information technology (IT) training and certification products. CompTIA unlocks potential in millions of aspiring technology professionals and careers changers. Working in partnership with thousands of academic institutions and training providers, CompTIA helps students build career-ready skills through best-in-class learning solutions, industry-recognized certifications and career resources.
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