Voice of Our Clients 2026: Global L&D Trends
Relevant, business-oriented learning is still the fundamental expectation from our clients. But L&D trends show that the context has become more demanding: time constraints are stronger, internal learning ecosystems are growing, AI is reshaping personalisation, and measurable impact is now a non-negotiable.
Each year, Cegos speaks with HR and L&D leaders within our client organizations around the world to better understand their skills development challenges, training practices, and expectations from L&D partners. The 2026 edition of Voice of Our Clients is based on over 900 client interviews, and highlights what has changed and what has not.
Current Challenges: Time, Budget, Measuring Impact, and AI
Our client organizations value learning as much as ever, however they're struggling to make it happen. Time and availability constraints are the top blocker when it comes to implementing meaningful learning, and time-to-impact is increasingly in focus.
Furthermore, specific impact evidence is now essential. L&D functions increasingly need proof of skills progressions, behavior change and transformation readiness to justify investment.
At a Glance: Critical Skills Organizations Need to Develop
Leadership & Management
Preparing managers for change, hybrid teams and people leadership.
AI, Digital, and Data Skills
Helping teams use technology and AI in practical, responsible ways.
Adaptability & Learnability
Building the ability to keep learning and adapt to transformation.
Job-ready Functional Skills
Developing skills that improve daily work performance.
Collaboration & Communication
Strengthening teamwork, empathy, emotional intelligence and customer focus.
Innovation and Problem-Solving
Helping teams deal with complexity and change.
Choosing an L&D Partner: What Clients Look For
Organizations are building broader learning ecosystems with a focus on internal academies and business-specific skills, and internal expectations of external partners are shifting to match. Strategic partnership, deep business understanding, and cultural fit are among the top expectations when it comes to selecting an L&D partner.
However, there's no single “average” when it comes to L&D needs. Across markets, some expectations remain consistent while others have distinct local differences.
Additionally, sector context and specificity plays a significant role in decision-making and shaping learning expectations.
AI in L&D: What Organizations Expect Next
Unsurprisingly, our clients show a strong interest in AI, but organizations are looking for it to be practical, trusted, and useful above merely 'innovative'.
The strongest model continues to be human-led, AI-supported learning, with L&D and HR professionals expecting AI to support:
- practical use cases, simulations, and practice
- personalised learning paths
- skills diagnostics
- feedback and reinforcement
- ROI and impact measurement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of this report?
The Cegos Voice of Our Clients report analyses worldwide trends in skills development challenges, training practices, and expectations of L&D partners from in-house Learning and Development and HR functions.
Who participated?
Cegos conducted more than than 900 interviews with HR and L&D professionals across 11 regions.
How will it help my organisation?
It provides key insights on what's changing — and what isn't — in the development strategies and day-to-day challenges of L&D functions across the world, helping you to benchmark your own function and look ahead to where the L&D landscape is going next.
Is the report free?
Yes, it is available to download for free after completing the form.
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