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The 2026 Natuvion IT Transformation Study

The recent 2026 IT Transformation Study by Natuvion and NTT Data Business Solutions sheds light on significant trends impacting IT migrations globally. More than 1,100 executives and IT specialists participated in this comprehensive survey, revealing a striking conclusion: only one in four migrations proceeds according to plan.

Key Findings

Amid the complexity of IT transformations, flexibility and artificial intelligence (AI) have emerged as paramount drivers of success. The study indicates that 71% of companies must adjust their migration strategies—whether implementing a greenfield, brownfield, or selective data transition—during the project lifecycle. Additionally, 76% of firms are currently employing AI technologies within their transformation efforts to streamline processes and enhance data accuracy.

Focus on Innovation

A compelling aspect of the study is the focus on innovation and flexibility. Many businesses surveyed aim to bolster their innovation capacities (46%) and enhance their organizational flexibility (42%). Given that flexibility is already a baseline requirement for effective transformations, organizations are prioritizing it to achieve their overarching goals. According to participants, 35% believe expertise in transformations is crucial, while 34% emphasize the need for data transparency, and 32% acknowledge the importance of continuity in project teams.

AI’s Dual Role in Transformation

AI was highlighted not just as a transformative force, but also as a tool actively deployed in the transformation process. Notably, 60% of respondents recognize the introduction of AI and other modern technologies as the leading catalyst for their IT transformations, a trend that mirrors findings from the previous year. With 63% of companies leveraging AI for technical implementation, approximately 60% utilize it for maintaining data quality, and 56% tap into its capabilities for strategic planning, it is evident AI is integral to both the vision and the execution of successful transformations.

Addressing Data Quality Challenges

Despite the enthusiastic adoption of AI, many organizations grapple with poor data quality, which remains a continual hurdle for 26% of respondents. This persistent issue indicates that basic data governance is often neglected, presenting substantial risks to enterprises during significant transformations. Inconsistent data and subpar standards frequently present overwhelming challenges that hinder the success of transformation efforts, particularly when AI’s efficiency hinges on the quality of input data.

Complexities Within Legacy Structures

Another eye-opening finding is the inherent complexity of legacy systems. 39% of respondents cited analyzing existing IT landscapes as their primary challenge during preliminary planning phases, accompanied by project complexity rated at 29%. The real difficulty does not reside merely in designing new architectural frameworks, but rather in navigating historical dependencies and the intricacies of existing structures. A nuanced understanding of these landscapes becomes critical to inform effective transformation initiatives.

Project Timelines and Budgeting

Survey results indicate that 44% of companies expect their transformations to span one to two years, typically budgeting between 5 to 50 million euros for the process. Nonetheless, a staggering 82% find themselves exceeding budget constraints, while almost 80% face schedule overruns. The infeasibility of applying linear methodologies to such dynamic projects emphasizes the necessity for resilient frameworks that anticipate uncertainty and allow for flexibilities in timelines and costs.

Lessons for Future Transformations

Looking forward, 34% of organizations plan to integrate more AI solutions into future transformations. Additional strategies include honing in on critical processes (32%), enhancing communication throughout initiatives (32%), and investing further in improving data quality (30%). These reflections reinforce that IT transformations demand strategic foresight rather than mere technical execution, marking a shift in how businesses approach technological evolution.

Conclusion

This study demarcates IT transformations as a pivotal aspect of contemporary business strategy, intertwining themes of innovation, flexibility, autonomy, and security. As organizations increasingly confront the realities of digital transformation, the role of IT crystallizes into a critical leadership function rather than a mere technical domain.

For a deeper dive, interested parties can download the full 2026 IT Transformation Study.

About Natuvion

Natuvion specializes in assisting businesses with seamless transitions of vital data and processes across technological platforms. By ensuring compatibility with modern systems, they facilitate operational efficiencies that aid client businesses in maintaining leadership positions in their respective markets. As a member of the SAP Selective Data Transition Community, Natuvion stands out as one of Europe's rapidly growing IT consultancy entities, powered by innovative software solutions like Natuvion DCS.