2026 Predictions for AI in the Workplace: Safeguards, ROI, and Innovation
January 6, 2026
Leaders from Dell, Microsoft, Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Snowflake have shared their forecasts for the role of AI in the workplace by 2026. A common theme emerges: prioritizing safeguards for AI agents and maximizing return on investment (ROI) will be crucial for organizations.
On-Premises AI for Greater Control
Dell’s CTO, John Roese, envisions AI mainly operating on-premises, giving organizations more control over security, governance, and costs. Roese warns that AI tools like chatbots and agents are being rushed into production without proper policies, which is risky and unsustainable. He emphasizes:
“By 2026, the demand for robust frameworks and private environments will be undeniable. Running models locally—on-premises or in controlled AI factories—will become the norm to ensure stability and protect organizations from external disruptions. This isn’t just a prediction; it’s an urgent call to action.”
ROI Drives AI Adoption
While large companies are already seeing ROI from AI, ServiceNow predicts that by 2026, AI's value will be measured primarily by its impact on the bottom line. Heath Ramsey, VP of AI Product Platform Management, advises companies to start small, targeting processes that are costly or time-consuming, and to ensure strong governance:
“You need a single entry point with clear policies and approvals. A secure foundation is how you turn wins into scalable, repeatable results across your business.”
Governing AI and Data Security
Data governance remains a key concern. Snowflake’s CISO, Brad Jones, notes that AI operators must balance pushing boundaries with maintaining guardrails. Unpermitted data in company datasets could pose security risks if fed into generative or agentic AI systems, potentially exposing sensitive information.
AI as a Brand and Market Differentiator
Salesforce highlights the importance of AI in shaping brand reputation. Adam Evans predicts:
“By 2026, brands won’t be defined just by logos or slogans; they’ll be defined by their AI. Personalized, evolving agents will serve as the ultimate brand ambassadors, delivering exceptional experiences that separate winners from laggards.”
Building Trust and Security
Microsoft underscores trust as essential for AI deployment. Vasu Jakkal emphasizes that AI agents should have security protections comparable to humans, with clear identities, access controls, and protocols to prevent risks like data breaches or malicious attacks.
Hardware and Infrastructure Innovation
Microsoft CTO Mark Russinovich stresses that effective AI infrastructure depends on dense, efficient compute across distributed networks. By 2026, he anticipates:
“The rise of flexible, global AI systems—linked AI ‘superfactories’—will lower costs and boost efficiency.” Microsoft is developing extensive AI “superclusters,” such as their Wisconsin facility with 1.2 million square feet hosting thousands of interconnected GPUs capable of processing vast data streams.
Preparing for AI Hardware Resilience
Roese from Dell adds that AI hardware resilience will change disaster recovery plans. Instead of just backing up systems, organizations will need to ensure AI capabilities survive disruptions, safeguarding essential data and AI artifacts.
Summary:
By 2026, AI in the workplace must be secure, governed, and cost-efficient. On-premises deployment, trustworthy agents, clear policies, and resilient infrastructure will be foundational. Companies that prioritize these aspects will unlock the full potential of AI while safeguarding their reputation and operations.