5 Actions to Strengthen Your Organization in 2026

During our recent webinar, our expert panel shared insights across cybersecurity, operations, technology, HR, and risk management. If you’re looking for practical steps to take immediately, here are five key actions to prioritize for your organization in 2026.

Cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. In fact, 89% of attacks on small- and medium-sized businesses are ransomware, according to the latest Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report.

Actionable Step: Start with a vulnerability assessment to understand where your organization is most exposed. Once you know your critical gaps, prioritize resources to address them through tools, processes, or strategic partnerships. The goal is resilience, not just compliance.

Many tasks, including accounts payable, period close, and routine data management, can be automated today. Panelists highlighted that finance teams, in particular, can use automation to reduce manual work and improve efficiency

Actionable Step: Identify “quick wins” that are repeatable, well-defined, and low risk. Start small to build momentum, then expand automation to more complex workflows. Even basic AI or data visualization tools can significantly streamline operations.

As AI and other digital tools become embedded in daily operations, employees’ confidence and capabilities are critical. We recommend establishing a formal skills inventory to map current abilities against future needs.

Actionable Step: Offer short, role-based learning sessions (15–20 minutes) to help employees feel equipped, not overwhelmed, by new technology. Transparent communication about AI and automation also reduces anxiety and encourages adoption across all generations.

Operational improvements only succeed when your strategy echoes from leadership to frontline teams. Employees must understand how their day-to-day actions contribute to profitable growth and organizational success.

Actionable Step: Review how your strategy is communicated throughout the organization. Are your teams equipped to make decisions that drive the outcomes you want? Clear alignment prevents bottlenecks and ensures that technology and process improvements deliver real results.

Effective risk management goes beyond documenting issues. Early warning indicators and scenario planning help organizations proactively respond to disruptions, from cyberattacks to supply chain shocks or unexpected leadership changes.

Actionable Step: Start documenting risks and their potential impacts. Assign owners, define thresholds for early warning signals, and discuss possible scenarios. Knowing your plan ahead of time allows for faster, more coordinated responses when disruptions occur.

2026 will reward organizations that are proactive, adaptable, and intentional. By focusing on these five areas: cybersecurity, automation, workforce skills, operational alignment, and risk planning, you can turn insights into action immediately.

Want to learn more about putting these ideas into practice in your organization? Connect with our team to discuss how we can help you execute on these priorities and achieve measurable results.