Ask the Expert: Top 5 IT Investments in 2026 to Drive Growth

In recent years, “digital transformation” has meant investing in new tools, migrating to the cloud, and adapting to hybrid work. As we look ahead to 2026, the conversation will shift from adding technology to getting more out of it.

Many organizations will focus less on buying new systems and more on aligning what they already have with their business goals. Several key priorities are expected to emerge. 

1. Making the Most of Cloud Investments

By 2026, most businesses will have already moved major systems to cloud platforms. The next step will be ensuring those systems are secure, well-organized, and cost-effective. Leaders will look to better manage access, reduce waste, and make sure teams are using the tools they already pay for to their full potential.

2. Strengthening Security and Reducing Risk

Cybersecurity will remain a top concern, but the approach will become more proactive. Instead of reacting to threats, companies will focus on understanding where they’re most at risk and tightening policies, training, and oversight. Regular security assessments and employee awareness programs will become standard practice for protecting data and reputation.

3. Improving Day-to-Day IT Operations

Technology performance will continue to influence how employees work, and customers are served. Organizations will look for more consistent processes for maintaining systems, updating equipment, and keeping people productive, especially in hybrid environments where work happens everywhere.

4. Building Business Resilience

With more operations depending on technology, leaders will place a stronger emphasis on business continuity. Reliable data backup, clear recovery plans, and regular testing will help ensure that unexpected disruptions, whether from outages or cyber incidents, don’t derail productivity or client trust.

5. Connecting IT Strategy with Business Strategy

Finally, digital transformation will increasingly become a boardroom conversation. Leadership teams will look for clearer roadmaps, measurable outcomes, and regular check-ins with technology advisors to ensure that IT decisions align with long-term business priorities.

In 2026, digital transformation won’t be defined by how much technology an organization has, but by how effectively it uses it to work smarter, serve clients better, and stay resilient in a changing world.