Enterprise technology 2026: 15 AI, SaaS, data, business trends to watch
This Constellation Research article outlines the top enterprise technology trends expected to shape 2026, spanning AI, SaaS, data, and business operations. Reach out to Thales Security to explore how these trends could influence your technology roadmap.
What are Agentic Enterprise License Agreements?
Agentic Enterprise License Agreements (AELAs) are becoming the standard as enterprises seek more predictable pricing models. These agreements allow companies to pay a flat fee for access to a range of services, sharing the risk with the provider. This model is particularly appealing to organizations that have already experimented with AI and are ready to scale their usage. As more SaaS providers adopt similar arrangements, they may initially incur losses to secure long-term customer relationships.
What challenges are enterprises facing with data tools?
Enterprises are expected to face significant challenges with data tools and access, particularly as legal disputes, such as the ongoing Celonis lawsuit against SAP, highlight issues around data ownership and access fees. As AI agents become more integrated, the costs associated with data connections may rise, creating budgetary pressures for IT departments. Organizations will need to navigate these complexities while ensuring they maintain ownership of their data.
How is AI transforming decision-making in enterprises?
AI is set to transform decision-making in enterprises by focusing on 'decision velocity,' which refers to the speed at which smaller decisions can be automated. As organizations implement AI agents, they will streamline decision trees, leading to significant improvements in efficiency. This shift will enable companies to automate processes more effectively, ultimately enhancing human engagement and operational productivity.

Enterprise technology 2026: 15 AI, SaaS, data, business trends to watch
published by Thales Security
Businesses and governments rely on Thales to bring trust to the billions of transactions they have with people. Our identity and data protection technologies help banks exchange funds, people cross borders, energy become smarter, and much more. More than 30,000 organizations already rely on Thales solutions to verify the identity of people and things, grant access to digital services, analyze vast quantities of information and encrypt data.