The pace of technological development has accelerated dramatically in recent years: AI, data-driven operations and automation are no longer a future possibility, but a daily reality, while labor market expectations are also fundamentally changing. In this environment, a particularly important question is which trends will truly shape the year 2026 in the IT field, and what is worth consciously preparing for.

We explored this topic in episode 76 of the Are You Hired! podcast, as part of the IT Insider series. In our broadcast, Zsófia Éles and Kristóf Hegedüs, heads of the IDBC Projects business unit, spoke with Orsolya Páder-Nagy (Head of HR) and Norbert Tóth (Delivery Director), who shared their experiences on behalf of Abesse.

We have now collected the most important lessons from the episode:

1️⃣ Technological renewal is only possible through conscious steps

In order for a company to remain competitive in 2–3 years, it is essential to devote time and resources to learning about new technologies and methods and incorporating them into everyday operations. At the same time, in a rapidly changing environment, it is particularly important that this renewal takes place in a structured manner, with clear goals, as this is the only way to filter out what really moves the organization forward and what is just a temporary trend.

2️⃣ The introduction of AI is not a technological decision, but a business decision

The application of artificial intelligence in 2026 is no longer an experimental question. The real challenge is not “whether to use it”, but where and how it can deliver measurable business results. The key to success is the identification of specific, well-defined problems, conscious examination of the return on investment and structured support for the introduction.

3️⃣ The real competitive advantage is born from shared thinking

In the world of increasingly complex IT projects, cooperation within a common, agile framework proves to be the most effective, instead of the classic “customer-supplier” operation. A quick and stable solution to complex problems can only be achieved if the parties do not just carry out the tasks, but also engage in constructive dialogue, consider alternatives and form a common solution with a critical approach. Cooperation based on partnership creates not only more efficient operation, but also a real competitive advantage.

4️⃣ Openness is a key competency of future IT professionals
In the IT field, it is already clear that we do not work in the same way as five years ago: new tools, new methods and a new way of thinking have appeared. However, the extent to which someone can adapt to these changes is not primarily a question of job title, but also depends on personality. Those who are open to new things and have a more experimental approach to technologies will be given an advantage.

5️⃣ Being a junior is a bigger challenge today than it was 3-5 years ago

The situation of junior professionals has become more complex: while technological developments have allowed more and more processes to be automated, the role of senior experts has become more valuable, who can not only apply new technologies, but also control their operation and professionally validate them. At the same time, in the long term, it is essential to find a place for juniors in this new environment and build the professionals of the future with structured internship programs and mentoring.

6️⃣ Without HR, there is no sustainable IT transformation

Technological changes can be tracked most effectively when HR and IT work together in close partnership. Successful adaptation is not just a matter of technology: it requires an organizational culture, feedback systems, and development and training opportunities that support colleagues to adapt to new expectations and technologies quickly and motivatedly.

📌 Summary

In 2026, the biggest competitive advantage in the IT world will not be new technology per se, but how quickly and consciously an organization can adapt to it. However, renewal can only be sustainable if it is supported by HR, colleagues open their willingness to learn, as well as the conscious development of junior professionals — because we are training the IT experts of the future today.

🎧If you would like to hear more about the topic and are curious about the full conversation, listen to our broadcast:

Website: https://idbc.hu/en/podcast/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WuuxglU0ktiQ2weNLhi6L?si=46b40e796cc7476d&nd=1&dlsi=fbdd73ced16d43c5

Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep76-it-insider-az-it-piac-v%C3%A1rhat%C3%B3-trendjei-2026-ban/id1589146173?i=1000750444443