Date
Dec 23, 2025
Tags
AI, Strategy, Digital Analytics
6 expert predictions to build a data-driven business in 2026
By 2026, AI will redefine what it means to be a data-driven business. We asked our leaders at Piano to share their opinion on what will bring success in the coming years, from AI automation and personalized experiences to strategic partnerships in legal, social and environmental compliance.
The rise of autonomous analytics
The most significant shift ahead is about AI systems that can act independently on business insights. Our VP of Data Strategy explains the evolution:
"In 2026, AI will evolve from answering questions to executing multi-step business processes – investigating issues, analyzing data across systems, and implementing solutions autonomously."
This transformation requires more than powerful technology. As our CPO of Analytics notes, it demands a fundamental rethinking of data infrastructure:
"AI will transform digital analytics from a backward-looking discipline into a forward-moving intelligence layer that guides every decision. Those who build trustworthy data foundations and embrace AI-native analytics will unlock a new era of autonomous, actionable insight."
Most organizations aren't ready. The same systems that will enable AI to act autonomously will also expose existing weaknesses in data quality and governance that companies have long overlooked.
Democratization through conversation
The most visible change for everyday business users will be the widespread adoption of conversational AI interfaces. Our Global SVP of Analytics predicts:
"Conversational interfaces will remove long-standing barriers to working with data, enabling employees across all business functions to access insights directly rather than relying exclusively on data or BI teams. This shift will accelerate true data democratization."
This democratization is already transforming specific industries. In media and publishing, where platform dependencies have made every visitor interaction crucial, our EVP of Media Strategy sees this playing out in sophisticated personalization:
"Media companies will become smarter about personalizing user experience, moving away from one-size-fits-all rules to dynamic experiences that maximize total revenue and ARPU."
The common thread is that AI is making advanced analytics accessible to non-experts while enabling unprecedented levels of personalization at scale.
The responsibility imperative
As AI capabilities expand rapidly, so does the regulatory and ethical landscape surrounding their use. Our Digital Ethics Officer emphasizes the urgency:
"Regulations surrounding AI are likely to evolve at a pace never seen before. Now more than ever, it’s important to have reliable technology partners who understand these regulatory changes and can support implementation while remaining compliant."
This isn't just about legal compliance. Environmental and social considerations are becoming business imperatives:
"The market is beginning to take into account the societal impacts of AI, particularly its environmental impact. The choice of technology partner, enabling appropriate use of AI and accurate measurement of its impact, will be paramount for maintaining ESG objectives."
Building for 2026 today
The organizations that will thrive in 2026 share common attitude towards AI and data:
Foundation first: They're investing in data quality, governance, and infrastructure that can support autonomous AI systems rather than rushing to deploy the latest models on shaky foundations.
Strategic partnership: They're selecting technology partners for their understanding of the evolving regulatory landscape and commitment to responsible AI development, not just for current capabilities.
Human-centered design: They're building AI systems that enhance human decision-making rather than replacing it, making analytics accessible, and maintaining human oversight of autonomous processes.
The next two years will be the defining ones for data-driven organizations. Build trustworthy foundations, embrace responsible AI practices, and create real business value – and you’ll find yourself leading in an era where data does more than just inform decisions – it makes them.
Find all trends to help you optimize your data strategy for 2026 in our key trends report.
