CTO Confidence in Scaling AI Falls for Third Straight Year
Chief Technology Officers' confidence in widespread AI implementation is declining, despite accelerating adoption, according to a new Akkodis report. The trend signals a shift from cost optimization to growth-focused strategies.
A new report by Akkodis, titled "What CTOs Think 2026," reveals a significant drop in confidence; only 48% of Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) feel confident about scaling AI in 2026, a steep decline from 82% in 2024. This occurs even as AI adoption accelerates and businesses face pressure to execute ambitious plans.
The research, surveying 500 CTOs, identifies agentic AI—systems that can plan, decide, and act—as the most impactful technology trend for 2026. Despite growing AI investments, the primary challenge for organizations is not technology access, but the complexity of integrating AI across enterprise systems, workflows, and decision-making processes.
The report highlights that barriers to AI scaling are increasingly operational rather than technical. Only 44% of CTOs believe leadership teams possess sufficient AI understanding, and just 46% have established frameworks for responsible AI. Furthermore, only 36% express satisfaction with workforce trust levels.
Digital transformation's focus is shifting from efficiency to innovation. For the first time, CTOs cite innovation, not efficiency, as the main driver for digital investment. This indicates a move away from cost-focused optimization towards growth and the development of new business models. The report also suggests AI is reshaping work and skills rather than leading to widespread job displacement.