This article was contributed to TechCabal by Teresa Morahan.
In times of unprecedented uncertainty, businesses face stronger headwinds than ever before. They must navigate a complex landscape of economic shifts and looming geopolitical challenges. In these turbulent times, the key question is not whether change will occur, but how effectively leaders can prepare for and adapt to it.
The Techtonic States research study by BDO Digital is a pioneering look into the business environment in 2026. This groundbreaking study posits four distinct future scenarios shaped by the interplay of various factors. At the heart of all the scenarios is one thing in common: technology.
Indeed, the transformative power of technology is driving resilience and innovation in every scenario. Whether it’s mitigating risks or capitalizing on new opportunities, advanced digital solutions hold the key to future success. As leaders prepare for the challenges ahead, the message is clear: their ability to effectively leverage technology will determine whether their business succeeds or fails.
According to Techtonic States survey results, a staggering 84% of business leaders believe that accelerating technological innovation is essential to survival. Incremental gains are no longer enough; organizations must embrace data-driven change to survive in an increasingly competitive environment. From adopting AI to leveraging data analytics, businesses are focusing on digital transformation to gain a competitive advantage.
However, despite promising technological advancements, the threat of cyber risks continues to loom. In every scenario outlined in the study, the threat of cyber attacks (including cyber fraud, espionage and ransomware attacks) cast a shadow over business operations. In fact, cybersecurity is seen as the third most impactful risk for businesses over the next three years, behind only cost of capital and economic downturn.
Despite this awareness, our research reveals worrying gaps in cybersecurity preparedness, especially among fast-growing companies. Cyber ​​threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and organizations must prioritize investments in innovation and protection to safeguard their future.
But technology alone is not enough to ensure success. As the survey highlights, organizational culture plays a pivotal role in unlocking technology’s full potential. An inclusive culture, aligned corporate goals, and a skilled workforce are essential ingredients for driving meaningful transformation. Unfortunately, many leaders express concern about whether their organizations will be able to fully leverage the benefits of technology due to a lack of implementation strategy and change management prioritization.
In an environment characterized by rapid change, agility and adaptability are more important than ever. Leaders must foster a culture of experimentation and an openness to outside expertise to stay ahead of the curve. Strategic partnerships have also emerged as a key factor, with most leaders emphasizing the importance of carefully selecting innovation partners to gain competitive advantage.
We are on the cusp of a new era of technological disruption. Challenges and opportunities abound ahead. Techtonic States research is a catalyst for businesses to prepare, adapt, and innovate. By leveraging technology effectively, cultivating a resilient culture, and building strategic alliances, organizations can confidently navigate the uncertainties of the future. The risks are great, but the rewards are even greater for those brave enough to embrace change. The time to act is now.
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Theresa is a Partner and Head of BDO Ireland’s Global Technology, Media & Entertainment and Telecommunications team. She has worked with a range of clients from large local corporations to listed international groups with overseas operations. Theresa is a member of BDO International’s International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Working Party which develops IFRS policy for the BDO global network.
