Leadership and learning create the conditions for adaptation, but workers also need technology that enables them to put new skills into practice.
That’s why workers who feel comfortable with new technology are also the most productive. 40% of Knowledge Workers say workplace technology helps them work more productively and that they feel comfortable keeping up with new tools.
Confidence is highest in emerging markets (51% vs. 33% in developed markets), among Gen Z and Millennials (42% each), at high-performing companies (46%), and among workers in the Healthy WRI Zone (54%). As with leadership and skills, technology confidence is closely associated with healthier relationships with work.
Having that baseline of confidence also changes how workers think about the future.
86% of workers in the Healthy WRI Zone are excited about the impact technology will have on their working lives, compared with just 34% in the Critical Zone.
Techno-optimism is substantially higher among Expert AI Users compared to Basic Users (75% vs. 58%) and by those in emerging markets, reinforcing the notion that those most comfortable with new technology are most likely to see it as a source of opportunity.
The business case for good tech is clear, but there is room for proactive management to catch up.
41% of ITDMs say their company manages employee technology issues proactively, while 49% describe a mixed approach and 10% a reactive one.
And ITDMs at proactive organizations are 18 points more likely to be in the Healthy WRI Zone than those at reactive organizations (53% vs. 35%). Technology creates the greatest value when it quietly removes friction, allowing workers to focus on adapting rather than troubleshooting.
53%
of ITDMs in organizations with a proactive approach to managing technology issues are in the Healthy WRI Zone
Vs.
35%
in fully reactive organizations
Despite 8 in 10 ITDMs being familiar with DEX solutions, just 1 in 10 use them currently.
Technology is the operating layer of adaptation.
Trusted leadership and upskilling create the conditions for change, but reliable tools and proactive support make adaptation possible in daily work. Organizations that get this right reduce friction, build resilience, and help change feel manageable.