HRM and skills development – February 2026

Manufacturing skills and digital shift
A survey by ECI Solutions (in Dutch) shows that Dutch manufacturing firms expect continued pressure in 2026 from labour shortages, cost volatility and supply chain disruptions. The report describes increased investment in ERP systems, automation and data integration to improve planning and productivity. You can download the report (in Dutch) after filling in your details.
Research by CADDi finds that 79% of executives see the shortage of skilled labour as their main challenge. Companies are expanding training and redesigning workflows to compensate. You can download the report after filling in your details.

AI moves to accountability
A report (8.1 MB) by Deloitte indicates that AI adoption in enterprises is moving from pilot projects to scaled deployment. The report highlights stronger focus on governance, data quality and measurable business value. A Lewis Silkin report points to rising legal and ethical risks linked to AI use, including transparency and employee monitoring. You can download the report after filling in your details. Meanwhile, a report (6.43 MB) by Deloitte Digital describes how customer service is shifting to AI-first models, with automation handling routine queries and employees managing complex cases.

Human skills in demand
A study by Deloitte shows that team performance increasingly depends on collaboration, communication and adaptability alongside technical skills. The survey describes how human capabilities support productivity in technology-rich environments.
Data in the Udemy Global Learning & Skills Trends Report show rising demand for AI and data skills as well as leadership and problem-solving training. Organisations are updating learning strategies to combine technical and behavioural development. You can download the report after filling in your details. The conclusion is that continuous learning and balanced skillsets are essential for workforce effectiveness.

Labour market rotation
The LinkedIn labour market report (4.12 MB) suggests that the global labour market is rotating rather than shrinking. The report describes growing mobility between sectors and rising demand for digital and analytical skills. Employers are recruiting for transferable skills and reskilling existing staff, while workers are shifting towards technology-related roles. The impact is an increased need for ongoing training and flexible career paths.

Hybrid work and safety
A scenario study (in Dutch, 1.98 MB) by TNO (in Dutch) outlines four possible futures for healthy and safe work towards 2040, shaped by technology adoption, demographics and organisational choices. The report describes outcomes ranging from highly automated workplaces to more human-centred models.
Research (in Dutch, 2.24 MB) from Instituut Gak (in Dutch) highlights legal and organisational challenges linked to hybrid work, including employer responsibility, working conditions and equal treatment. Organisations are updating policies and safety frameworks. The conclusion is that sustainable hybrid work requires clear governance, prevention measures and attention to employee wellbeing.
 

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