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The 2026 Learning & Development Report: RedThread Research

RedThread Research has recently published its 2026 State of Learning & Development (L&D) report, reflecting key insights from a comprehensive survey of 770 employees and L&D leaders. This research marks the third iteration of their biennial study, aimed at dissecting the current dynamics and functioning of L&D within high-performing organizations.

Key Findings and Insights

The report highlights a discernible trend across five core dimensions: Direction & Vision, Development Experience, Operations & Governance, Technology & Data, and Stakeholder Alignment. A noteworthy observation is that most L&D functions continue to operate distanced from the actual work environment. However, organizations that have minimized this distance, particularly among the top 25% of performers, exhibit significantly enhanced outcomes.

The high-performing organizations scored remarkably better in every measure of learning culture and demonstrated elevated confidence in their data-driven decisions. They also engaged a broader array of stakeholders in shaping their strategic directions. This is not merely a statistical observation; the cultural fabric of these high performers illustrates a more embedded approach to L&D.

Redefining the Role of L&D

Dani Johnson, Co-Founder and Principal Analyst at RedThread Research, remarked, "Our hypothesis is that L&D transitions from a tactical operator to one that facilitates various organizational endeavors, rather than remaining a secluded silo." This implies a pivotal shift in how L&D teams view their roles—from merely being invited to strategic discussions to actively engaging in tactical implementations across the organization.

Interestingly, the study noted a decline in L&D's involvement in high-level business strategy discussions, a trend that has now persisted for three consecutive studies. Initially, this decline raises concerns regarding the relevance of the L&D function. However, discussions with industry leaders reveal a more nuanced narrative. Many leaders have recognized the importance of addressing capability gaps directly and are proactively partnering with other business functions instead of vying for a seat at the strategic table.

Shifts in Employee Development Approaches

A significant revelation from the report is the evolution in how employee development occurs. Traditional methods typically associated with L&D, such as formal training sessions, have been superseded by more organic forms of development. Feedback from managers and stretch assignments emerged as the primary tools for employee development, further emphasizing the need for L&D to reevaluate how it facilitates learning in real-world scenarios. For the first time, none of the conventional L&D-owned methods made it to the top ten list of preferred development strategies.

This shift necessitates a profound reconsideration of how L&D can effectively foster learning in environments where employees naturally develop their skills.

Technology Investments for Enhanced Performance

With the changing landscape of employee development, technology investments are also evolving. The survey results indicate that L&D leaders are prioritizing investments in tools aimed at enhancing on-the-job performance, placing this goal above traditional areas like content creation and management. Dani Johnson further elaborates, "In the past, the emphasis was on managing experiences. We are now shifting the focus towards improving actual job performance, which is a promising development."

Additionally, three emerging skills have surfaced that illustrate a departure from the conventional image of a L&D practitioner. These skills suggest a future role of L&D that mirrors more closely that of an operational business leader.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The findings from the 2026 report serve as a clarion call for organizations to revamp their L&D strategies, ensuring alignment with evolving workplace dynamics. Companies need to foster a culture that not only adapts to changing trends but actively engages in shaping the future of learning and development. For a more in-depth analysis, interested parties are encouraged to join the RedThread Research community to access the comprehensive insights encapsulated in the full report.

For more information, visit RedThread Research or contact them via email. As the workplace is continuously transformed by rapid changes, the necessity for insightful expertise in L&D has never been more critical. Let's explore the depths of these transformations and refine the future of learning for business excellence.