A new regional technology study has revealed a growing gap between digital ambition and operational readiness, with organisations investing more in technology while governance, measurement and resilience struggle to keep pace.
The Acronyms IT Report 2026, based on research with organisations across the South West, highlights both progress and persistent structural weaknesses in how businesses approach technology strategy, cyber security, artificial intelligence and business continuity.
The research found that 58.5% of organisations now have an IT strategy, a modest improvement on previous years. However, only around a quarter measure IT performance using meaningful KPIs, limiting accountability and reducing the ability to demonstrate value from increasing technology investment.
At the same time, confidence in technology investment continues to rise, with 59% of organisations expecting their IT spend to increase in the coming year. Yet the report warns that spending decisions are not always matched by stronger governance or clearer strategic oversight.
Cyber security remains the top technology priority across the region. While adoption of tools such as multi-factor authentication has improved, the research shows that more than half of organisations still do not provide regular cyber security awareness training, leaving human risk largely unaddressed.
Artificial intelligence is emerging as another defining theme. Across all organisation sizes, sentiment towards AI is overwhelmingly positive, with close to nine in ten organisations expecting AI to deliver a net positive impact over the next 12 months. However, the report highlights that many businesses are experimenting with AI tools without clear governance or defined use cases.
Dave Smith, Managing Director at Acronyms, said the findings highlight a critical moment for organisations navigating rapid technological change.
“There’s no question organisations are more digitally capable than ever before. The risk is that confidence and investment are rising faster than control. Strategy without measurement, and technology without governance, leaves organisations far more exposed than they realise.”
The report segments findings by organisational size — SMEs, Mid-Market and Enterprise — revealing clear differences in how technology is adopted and governed.
Smaller organisations tend to move quickly and optimistically with emerging technologies such as AI, often without formal oversight. Mid-Market organisations face growing complexity as their digital estates expand, while larger enterprises demonstrate stronger governance but must manage the operational challenges that come with scale.
Helen Wylde-Archibald, CEO of Devon Chamber of Commerce, said the research provides vital insight for regional leaders.
“This is possibly one of the most important pieces of research for the region on our digital future. I strongly recommend that every business leader in our region reads this report and acts on its findings.”
The report concludes that real progress will not come from simply investing in more technology. Instead, organisations need clearer ownership of technology risk, simple but effective performance indicators, stronger cyber awareness among staff and regularly tested business continuity plans.
The Acronyms IT Report 2026 is now available for download at https://www.acronyms.co.uk/
ENDS
Notes for the editor:
Photos: A selection of the report and images from the Plymouth launch at City College Plymouth and the Bristol launch at the Engine Shed.
Acronyms is the strategic IT partner for over 200 organisations across the UK. Clients include industry giants such as Molson Coors Brewing Company and prominent regional businesses such as the National Marine Aquarium. The company is also an official partner of the Plymouth Law Society, Cornwall Law Society and Digital Plymouth.
For further information on this release please contact:
Martyn King
Fuel
Interested in Joining?
To become a member of Plymouth Law Society simply contact the Treasurer, James Walsh, by emailing [email protected] or by writing to the below postal address:
The Treasurer, Plymouth Law Society, GA Solicitors, 25 Lockyer Street, Plymouth. PL1 2QW
