Reporting on Global L&D Trends: Voice of Our Clients 2026

Each year, Cegos speaks with HR and L&D leaders within our client organisations around the world to better understand their skills development challenges, training practices, and expectations from L&D partners.

The 2026 edition of Voice of Our Clients is based on over 900 client interviews, and highlights what has changed and what has not.

The headlines? Clients still expect relevant, business-oriented learning. But the context has become more demanding: time constraints are stronger, internal learning ecosystems are growing, AI is reshaping expectations, and measurable impact is now essential.

Key Highlights

• Clients continue to expect training that is directly relevant to their business context.
• Time and budget pressure remain the main barriers to learning.
• Trainer credibility and facilitation quality are still major differentiators.
• Customisation and cultural fit are now expected, not optional.
• Internal academies and learning ecosystems are becoming more prominent.
• AI is changing expectations, but clients want practical, trusted use cases.
• Measuring impact is becoming essential to justify investment.