Research and consulting firm Gartner has released its top predictions for the future of IT organizations and users, focusing on the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and its widespread effects on the workplace and beyond.
Gartner analysts laid out scenarios showing how AI is expected to transform management, digital behavior, decision-making, and employee experiences.
“It is clear that no matter where we go, we cannot avoid the impact of AI,” said Daryl Plummer, analyst, chief of research, and Gartner Fellow, at the recent Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo. “AI is evolving as human use of AI evolves. Before we reach the point where humans can no longer keep up, we must embrace how much better AI can make us.”
One major prediction for 2026 is that 20% of organizations will use AI to streamline their organizational structure. This means eliminating many middle management positions, which could reduce labor costs and improve efficiency. With AI handling tasks like scheduling and performance monitoring, remaining managers can focus on more strategic work. However, this shift may also raise concerns among employees about job security and hinder opportunities for mentorship and growth.
Disjointed workforce
Gartner also foresees significant societal impacts due to increasing digital immersion. By 2028, it predicts that about one billion people could suffer from digital addiction, leading to problems like social isolation and mental health issues. To address this, Gartner expects 70% of organizations to introduce policies aimed at reducing digital overload, such as banning after-hours communication and encouraging activities that reduce screen time.
“The isolating effects of digital immersion will lead to a disjointed workforce, causing enterprises to see a significant drop in productivity from their employees and associates,” Plummer said. “Organizations must make digital detox periods mandatory for their employees.”
Gartner predicts that by 2029, 10% of global boards will use AI to challenge executive decisions. AI-generated insights could provide valuable input, helping to refine leadership choices. Plummer acknowledged that AI’s influence on executive decisions may not be welcomed at first but emphasized its potential to improve business outcomes over time.
AI for employee behavior analysis
Another key forecast is the increasing use of AI to monitor employee moods and behaviors. By 2028, 40% of large enterprises are expected to deploy AI for sentiment analysis in the workplace. While this technology could boost engagement and productivity, there are concerns it may lead to a loss of autonomy and trust among employees.
“Employees may feel their autonomy and privacy are compromised, leading to dissatisfaction and eroded trust,” said Plummer. “Companies must balance efficiency gains with genuine care for employee well-being to avoid long-term damage to morale and loyalty.”
These predictions highlight how AI will continue to influence everything from management structures to mental health and privacy concerns. While AI’s benefits are clear, Gartner stresses that organizations need to proceed thoughtfully to maintain the balance between technological advancement and the human element.