L&D is Struggling to Cope with the Pace of Change

Our key headline doesn’t come as a surprise. Budgets are shrinking, expectations are rising, and keeping pace with a learning landscape experiencing ever more rapid change is proving difficult. AI is transforming L&D teams - as well as the expectations of learners - and so inevitably, AI is now top of the strategic priority list. 

But many L&D teams are struggling. 

Embracing AI — and realising its productivity gains and cost savings — demands a rethink of skills strategy and, in many cases, a fundamental overhaul of the L&D operating model. Yet too many teams remain focused on productivity and content creation, when AI’s greater potential lies in wider transformation. The hard truth is that the learner landscape is changing with or without the L&D team. So, it’s time for L&D leaders to reframe their role and L&D value proposition. At a time when AI is transforming what learning means, leaders have an opportunity to step up and be true strategic enablers.
This year’s research is split into three clusters: L&D Strategy and Resourcing, AI Value, and Ecosystem and Learning Experience, with the first cluster of results going live on 1 July 2026. You can download them here.