The annual Reveal survey from Infragistics reveals that while AI is delivering significant productivity and performance gains, the rapidly changing landscape of economic uncertainties and geopolitical risks is forcing technology leaders to rethink their strategies for 2026. The survey of 250 senior technology decision-makers highlights a transition from quick AI experimentation to a methodical approach focused on disciplined execution.
“The Reveal survey shows that AI is clearly delivering productivity gains, but today’s economic reality is raising the bar for every technology investment,” stated Casey Ciniello, senior product manager at Infragistics. “The data signals a decisive shift from experimentation to disciplined execution.”
Talent shortages create business challenges
Among the considerable challenges tech leaders face, recruiting and retaining skilled technology talent emerged as the top priority, cited by 50% of respondents. This increasing gap between AI adoption and the availability of qualified professionals creates hurdles for organisations aiming to implement and scale AI solutions effectively.
Furthermore, 42% of respondents indicated that the complexity of integrating AI poses a significant challenge, underscoring how organisations must transition from pilot projects to full-scale deployments. Other challenges include improving employee productivity (54%), managing budget constraints (35%), and making data-driven decisions (12%).
Economic pressures and strategic adjustments
In light of these challenges, many organisations are bracing for a cautious year ahead. Economic pressures have led 54% of surveyed leaders to delay launches or expansions, while 43% report reduced innovation budgets. This has prompted a shift from aggressive growth strategies to more defensive optimisation, focused on resilience, cost control, and risk management.
The survey highlights a disconnect between the technologies that drive performance and the budget constraints limiting investment. While 66% of respondents credited AI adoption for productivity gains, a quarter plan to cut spending in 2026 amid inflation and rising costs.
Embracing AI for targeted growth
Despite the economic landscape, there is a notable optimism regarding growth opportunities anchored in AI. Over three-quarters (77%) of leaders plan to increase their AI usage, with 46% aiming to boost revenue, double the figure from the previous year. This indicates a proactive shift toward targeted expansion strategies, with AI investments increasingly expected to yield measurable business outcomes.
Ciniello remarked, “The surge in embedded analytics adoption signals a turning point for enterprise intelligence.” This sentiment reflects the necessity of integrating analytics into core operations to improve decision-making and productivity.
A call for strategic focus
As we enter 2026, technology leaders must navigate talent shortages, security concerns, and economic pressures while investing wisely in high-impact AI initiatives.
Success will hinge on disciplined execution, ensuring that technology investments translate into real business value. Those who adapt to these changing dynamics will be better positioned to maintain productivity, drive growth, and excel in an uncertain global environment.
