Transformation Study 2026

NTT DATA Business Solutions & Natuvion

 
How successful are IT transformations in 2026 – and what drives results?
 
 
 

 

Wouldn't it be interesting to know...

... what drives IT and SAP transformation today – and why so many projects still fail to meet expectations?

For the Transformation Study 2026, we surveyed 1,115 CEOs, CIOs, IT decision-makers and transformation leaders across 15 countries about their most recent transformation projects.

The study provides a clear and data-driven view of transformation in practice – from strategic objectives and key challenges to measurable outcomes and success factors that truly make a difference.

Gain exclusive insights into how organizations approach transformation in the age of AI – and learn what it takes to turn complexity into measurable business results.

Key Findings

AI is the #1 driver of transformation – but also a major challenge

Modern technologies like AI drive 60% of transformations – yet data quality, governance, and transparency remain major barriers.

Transformation is shifting from cost reduction to future strategy

Organizations focus more on innovation (46.5%) and flexibility (42.2%) than cost reduction – making transformation a top management priority.

Most transformations miss time and budget target

82% exceed budget and nearly 80% exceed timelines – showing that transformation is. not a linear project but a complex program.

Complexity is the biggest operational challenge

39% struggle most with analyzing existing IT landscapes, followed by overall project complexity (29%).

Why this study matters for decision-makers

  • Understand why most transformations fail to meet expectations
  • Identify the real success factors beyond technology
  • Learn how to connect AI strategy with data and operations

Norbert Rotter V2

The risks that companies take without IT transformation are measurable in business terms and highly relevant strategically: Cost explosion, performance problems and technological incompatibility. However, the different priorities depending on the size of the company, which become clear in the study results, also show that transformation cannot be a standard process. For us, this is not just a picture of the mood, but a guide. Transformation is an investment in future viability and competitive strength. If you don't actively shape it today, you will lose market share tomorrow.

Norbert Rotter Chief Executive Officer of NTT DATA Business Solutions and EVP of NTT DATA, Inc.

Download the study now!

Thank you for your interest in our study. Simply fill out the form to download the Transformation Study 2026.

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