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IT automation in 2026: Beyond the AI Hype
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The future of IT automation, as envisioned by industry experts, isn’t solely reliant on artificial intelligence-though AI will undoubtedly play a central role.A recent InformationWeek virtual event,IT Automation in 2026: It Isn’t ALL About AI (Just Mostly)
,highlighted a more nuanced landscape where Robotic Process Automation (RPA),low-code/no-code platforms,and intelligent automation converge to redefine workflows.
While AI garners important attention, the event underscored that successful automation strategies require a holistic approach. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the need to integrate various technologies to achieve true end-to-end automation. This means moving beyond isolated AI projects and focusing on orchestrating a broader ecosystem of tools.
The Expanding Role of RPA
RPA remains a cornerstone of IT automation, even as AI capabilities advance. According to panelists, RPA’s strength lies in its ability to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks, freeing up human employees for more strategic work. However, RPA is evolving. We’re seeing RPA move beyond simple task automation to become a platform for broader digital transformation
, noted one speaker.
Did You Know? RPA adoption continues to grow, with estimates suggesting a market size exceeding $3 billion by 2026.
AI’s Contribution: Intelligent Automation
AI’s impact on automation is most pronounced in the realm of intelligent automation. This involves combining AI technologies-such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision-with RPA to automate more complex processes that require decision-making and adaptability. For example, AI can be used to extract data from unstructured documents, analyze customer sentiment, or predict potential system failures.
Low-Code/no-code Platforms Democratize Automation
Low-code/no-code platforms are empowering citizen developers to participate in automation initiatives. These platforms provide a visual interface for building and deploying automated workflows, reducing the need for extensive coding expertise. This democratization of automation is accelerating innovation and enabling organizations to respond more quickly to changing business needs.
Key Data & Timelines
| Area | 2023 | 2026 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| RPA Market Size | $2.4B | $3.2B+ |
| AI in Automation | Early Adoption | Widespread Integration |
| citizen Developer Impact | Limited | Significant |
| Process Automation Rate | 30% | 60% |
Challenges and considerations
Implementing successful IT automation strategies isn’t without its challenges. Data quality, integration complexities, and the need for skilled personnel are key hurdles. Organizations must also address the ethical implications of AI-powered automation, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Pro Tip: Start small with pilot projects to demonstrate the value of automation and build momentum within your association.
The Future Landscape
Looking ahead to 2026, the IT automation landscape will be characterized by greater intelligence, agility, and accessibility. AI will continue to enhance RPA capabilities, while low-code/no-code platforms will empower a wider range of users to participate in automation initiatives. the focus will shift from automating individual tasks to orchestrating end-to-end processes, driving greater efficiency and innovation.
“The real power of automation lies not in replacing humans, but in augmenting their capabilities.” – InformationWeek virtual Event Speaker.
The event emphasized that a successful automation strategy requires a clear understanding of business goals, a commitment to data quality, and a willingness to embrace new technologies. Organizations that can effectively navigate these challenges will be well-positioned to thrive in the increasingly automated world of 2026.
What are your biggest automation challenges right now?
