Sam Smith, institute director at Socitm, sets out the five priorities members say will define 2026: from cyber resilience and new ways of working to AI governance, data maturity and digital inclusion
In June 2025, we asked President’s Conference delegates what they most needed from Socitm’s annual Digital Trends report. We know what we think. But do we really know what members think? Their answers formed 5 key trends: cyber security; ways of working; data; Artificial Intelligence (AI); and digital inclusion With this and post-conference surveys, members created our research focus for 2026.
1. Cyber security
The delegates’ focus was on ensuring we’re safe from unauthorised data access and system compromise.
The stakes are high. There have been several high-profile cyber incidents in 2025 resulting in the complete loss of IT systems and data, alongside severe service disruption.
Cyber resilience hinges on your preparedness and agility.
Security is defined by speed, intelligence, and resilience. Organisations combining technology with governance and human expertise will be best placed to withstand the evolving threat landscape.
What’s changing rapidly is the role of AI. It’s a critical player on both sides of the battle: defence and attack. I
n 2026, you should connect with external experts, your local Warning, Advice and Reporting Point (WARP) and the NCSC. Make sure you have a well-defined, up to date (and tested) incident response plan. Engaging your executive leaders is vital for achieving true cyber resilience, proactive defence, and managing cyber risks across your organisation and networks.
2. Ways of working
Delegates’ focus was on creating the space for innovation amidst daily operational pressures.
Digital transformation is no longer optional. It’s how we all operate. In 2026, you’ll need to move beyond incremental change and reimagine services without traditional boundaries. This means thinking about digital as a value driver and not a cost centre. Embrace the critical role of DDaT to take advantage of innovation, without being led by suppliers.
In 2026, you should establish a risk model which tolerates mistakes within accountability boundaries; create space for less structured digital projects and testing new ideas (perhaps through small budgets for experimentation); and promote a culture that encourages experimentation and appropriate risk-taking.
3. AI
Delegates’ focus was on using AI for better-targeted resources and services.
AI will continue to reshape public services. It can reinvent citizen experiences, boost productivity, and optimise operations. Using it to augment, not replace, human activity, can enable smarter decisions and better outcomes.
With this comes risk. AI introduces challenges such as bias, privacy breaches, security vulnerabilities, and ethical dilemmas.
Public trust in connected technologies remains fragile. Maintaining trust will be critical as services become more personalised and data driven.
In 2026, you should establish robust governance, skills, and understanding; improve relationships with residents, share how their data is handled, involve them in shaping policymaking: and undertake risk analysis for AI (including new external cyber risks).
4. Data
Delegates’ focus was on using data for improvement and transformation.
The effectiveness of your digital projects depends on data quality. We still struggle with gaps in standards, governance, and skills. All of which must be tackled to really unlock the full potential of our technologies.
Collaboration remains essential. Tightening budgets (and for many LGR) will drive shared services and support models. External partnerships strengthen data capability and capacity, while open data sharing where appropriate fosters innovation.
Data governance and ethics will become increasingly vital as data usage expands.
In 2026, you should prioritise clear outcomes; further develop your data skills; assign senior-level responsibility; fully understand your organisation’s data assets. Data interoperability: databases linking to provide a full picture for safeguarding vulnerable people.
5. Digital Inclusion
Delegates’ focus was on the risk of an increasing digital divide and exclusion.
Variations in technical proficiency, access, and a lack of fundamental data skills is leaving some communities and individuals behind.
Digital inclusion also extends to resilience. Service disruptions can prevent citizens from making online payments. While specific technologies are still evolving, the imperative is clear: digital services must be reliable, accessible, and inclusive.
In 2026, you should plan how to use new technologies and data to create value and inclusion for your communities; prioritise digital skills development for staff and citizens; build accessibility in from the start of your service design, include offline alternatives for those who cannot or will not use digital channels; and maintain transparency and trust by communicating how you’re using data and technology and involve communities in shaping digital strategies.
