The industry update
Microsoft’s 2026 Work Trend Index draws on a survey of 20,000 workers using AI across 10 countries, alongside Microsoft 365 signals and expert interviews. Its central argument is that people’s growing AI capabilities need support from the organisations around them.
The report gives particular attention to management, culture and the design of work. Because the survey focuses on AI users and includes self-reported experience, its findings should not be treated as a guaranteed outcome for every workplace.
Why a tool subscription is only the start
Imagine two colleagues using the same AI assistant. One has approved reference material, a clear task and a manager who reviews the result. The other is unsure what information can be shared and whether using AI is even encouraged. Their experiences may differ long before the quality of the software becomes the deciding factor.
Our reading of the report is that adoption deserves the same attention as any other working practice. People need clarity about when to use the tool, what good work looks like and who remains responsible for the outcome.
A practical approach for a small team
Start by selecting one common task and discussing it together. A team might choose a first draft of a customer FAQ, a summary of approved meeting notes or an outline for a presentation. Use a real example that people can evaluate, rather than a demonstration that looks impressive but does not solve a recurring problem.
- Write a short shared brief showing the expected audience, tone and format.
- Agree which information is appropriate to use and which needs to stay out.
- Keep one good example and one corrected example for others to learn from.
- Ask whether the final output was better and whether review was manageable.
Make room for employees to say that a task did not benefit from AI. That feedback is useful evidence, not a failure to adopt. A repeatable, well-understood process is more valuable than usage for its own sake.
Turn experimentation into a plan
Our digital services connect business goals with implementation. You can also explore the project portfolio to see how clear user journeys shape the platforms we work on.
Have a project in mind?
Share a few details and a senior strategist will come back with a clear plan and next steps.