Gartner has identified three technology trends government technology leaders should consider as they modernize operations, strengthen cyber resilience, govern AI at scale and respond to rising citizen expectations amid economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
Trend 1: Managing the ripple effect of Agentic AI
Gartner says as governments move from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale adoption, AI agents will become a key catalyst for transformation. Agentic AI is expected to support government operations, enhance citizen experiences, accelerate software development and automate routine decision-making processes.
According to the research, many governments are already examining governance frameworks, digital identities and new operational models to manage growing use of AI agents. Gartner advises agencies to establish outcome-based AI roadmaps and to develop clear metrics to measure value from AI investments.
government technology trends and the changing cybersecurity landscape
Gartner warns that advances in AI, rising geopolitical tensions and the emergence of quantum computing are reshaping cybersecurity for government organizations. They should move beyond periodic reviews and compliance-driven approaches toward adaptive, continuously evolving cyber strategies.
Gartner recommends automating security operations where possible; improving visibility across the digital supply chain; establishing post-quantum cryptography readiness plans; and strengthening governance around data sovereignty and third-party risk.
Workforce, service delivery and operating models
Emerging technologies, more digitally literate workforces and demand for new technical skills are forcing governments to rethink how technology services are delivered. Gartner states that future-ready organizations will be built around digital and AI-literate workforces and will require adaptive operating models and governance structures that enable innovation while maintaining accountability.
In a Gartner survey of 1,219 CIOs and IT leaders conducted in January 2026, 78% of government respondents said they anticipate investing in their people to advance key technology initiatives. Gartner recommends that governments prioritize AI literacy, workforce modernization and organizational flexibility to meet growing service demands and improve operational efficiency.
