People Strategy Forecast for 2026
The future of work is here and AI has become the newest team member for most teams, so what does this all mean for the world of work in 2026? Here’s our forecast for the year ahead.
AI is about amplifying the humans
2025 was the year AI became part of the org chart for more teams and more organizations. Now we see a year ahead where our focus will be on figuring out how best to redesign our workflow with this new team member by our side, recognizing that the best use of AI is when it serves to amplify humans, rather than replace.
Frugal innovation is where it’s at
With increasing levels of uncertainty on the horizon, more teams and organizations are gong to be tasked with doing more with less. This means that more than ever before, frugal innovation is about to have its moment. People and teams that can find low-cost, high-impact innovation, process improvements, and ways of working are going to be the real MVPs. It’s time to channel the inner paper plane - simple design, unlimited reach.
Purposeful work is not fluffy
Designing engaging and purposeful work is often seen as the “soft” and “fluffy” side of things, which is somehow often equated with easy. Designing work that amplifies the human element and makes real humans want to contribute their talent, is not just a task for the “Party Planning Committee” or the “Committee to Plan Parties” - it’s going to be about using data and human-centred design to craft an employee experience that maximizes potential and impact.
Constructive conflict is the key to healthy teams
With the addition of AI as a new team member and hybrid work being the norm, it’s more important than ever to remember that the world of work is human and requires healthy team dynamics. This s not about the absence of conflict or blind trust. Teams that will achieve amazing things together will be the ones that can “rumble” and resolve conflict in constructive ways.
Inclusion and belonging are here to stay
Last, but not least, we’re holding firm on the need for diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and all the ways we can create workplaces that capture the potential of everyone in it. It’s not new and it’s here to stay.
The world of work is fascinating, exciting, and constantly evolving. Our forecast for 2026 is less about trends and more about how we can amplify the human element of work, re-imagine our partnership with technology, and help work meet purpose!
You got this!