02/2026
Performance Culture 2026: Why the “Harmony Dilemma” Is Holding Companies Back
In many organizations, two worlds are currently colliding: massive transformation pressure driven by AI meets a workforce that feels torn between a “soft-touch approach” and “performance pressure.” Yet the old command-and-control mindset no longer works. If you want to measure performance today, you first need to create enablement.
We recently discussed this in an article published by Computerwoche (original article is in German). The core issue in many organizations is a “harmony dilemma.” The backlash against hard performance culture clashes with a caring leadership approach — a conflict that slows companies down more than any KPI ever could.
AI Enablement as a Lever for the New Performance
AI only unfolds its impact in everyday work when it is understood not merely as an IT tool, but as a core capability. Effective AI enablement connects target groups, content, and timing to transform AI from a “tool topic” into a shared change initiative.
We focus on five key impact areas:
- AI Fundamentals: Building a shared understanding of LLMs and prompting.
- AI Governance: Confidence in responsible AI use and translating regulations such as the AI Act into practice.
- Use Case Identification: Enabling teams to prioritize relevant AI use cases within their specific work context.
- AI Transformation: Communication and building acceptance within teams.
- Transfer to Team: Sustainable integration of knowledge into daily ways of working.
The Shift: Performance Cultures in Direct Comparison
As we explained in Computerwoche, KPIs in the future must be aligned with real value creation — outcomes that truly matter to customers and the organization. The comparison illustrates the necessary shift:
30% of the Workforce Determines Success
For AI transformation to succeed, approximately 30% of the workforce must be actively enabled. Our approach integrates all levels — from top management and leadership to AI multipliers and subject-matter experts.
Conclusion for HR, IT, and Business Leaders
Introducing AI is not a pure IT project — it is a cultural transformation. We ensure that AI initiatives create measurable impact by closing critical skill gaps through clearly aligned training.
Would you like to learn how we translate your competency mapping into a scalable learning journey?
Let’s analyze together how to elevate your organization to the next level of performance.
