State of Change Management: AI, Overload, and the "Resource Gap". Challenges and Priorities in 2026

Kerrie Smit
3 days ago
2 min read

A header image showing AI & Behaviour, Competing Priorities and Tech Gap being key contents of the article

At Agencia Change, we believe the best way to tackle change is to listen to the stakeholders. Since October 2024, we’ve been collecting data from change leaders across the globe in a rolling survey to understand what’s actually happening on the ground. In this February edition of The Change Agility Report we share some interesting trends, and invite you to contribute.

The results so far are fascinating, showing a profession that is highly experienced but increasingly stretched.

Here is a first look at the data behind the trends in our industry

1. The Juggling Act is Real

Experience doesn’t always make it easier!

With over 50% of respondents having 10+ years in the field, the #1 challenge remains Managing competing priorities. Your message is loud and clear: change isn't just about the projects; it’s about the change fatigue of managing multiple moving parts with limited resources. One respondent noted, "The overarching themes are competing priorities for resources and time to dedicate to change activities."

Data presented on a chart — **Experience distribution reflects the senior profile of the Agencia Change community.**

2. The AI Curiosity Peak

The "next big thing" is already here. Artificial Intelligence has emerged as the top area for professional development interest.

While many are still in the exploration phase—with one participant noting AI is "an exciting space for OCM to increase visibility"—there is a clear hunger to move beyond the hype and understand how data and AI can practically enhance our roles.

3. The Tool Paradox

Here’s a surprising statistic: 66% of organisations still don't use dedicated change management software.

We are tasked with leading "Digital Transformations," yet many of us are still building manual heat maps in Excel. There is a massive opportunity for us to start practicing what we preach by adopting better technology to manage our own work.

4. Behavioural Science & Agility

Beyond tech, the focus remains deeply human.

Behavioural Science and Organisational Agility are the top trends you want to master. This tells us that the future of change isn't just about faster delivery; it's about deeper psychological understanding and more adaptive leadership.

Change Management Challenges and Priorities 2026: We Want to Hear from You!

Our Change Management Challenges and Priorities data is growing, but we need more voices to reflect the full diversity of the change management community in 2026. Are you seeing these same trends? Or is your experience completely different?