All 81% of business leaders call for clear guidelines to ensure ethical technology

A new study from NTT DATA reveals that top executives across the world are increasingly concerned about the responsible use of new technology in business. More than 2,300 senior leaders from 34 countries took part in the study, and the results show a strong demand for clearer rules and better guidance on how businesses should manage new technological advancements.

The enthusiasm for innovation remains high, but business leaders are also becoming more aware of the risks that come with moving too fast without proper safeguards. Many worry that failing to set ethical standards could harm investments, weaken security systems, and reduce public trust. The study highlights a growing divide among leaders—some focus on pushing technology forward quickly, while others want to slow down and ensure it is used responsibly.

NTT DATA CEO Abhijit Dubey points out that while there is excitement about the potential of new technology, there is also a growing awareness that using it without responsibility can create major problems. Without clear strategies, companies risk financial losses, security breaches, and reputational damage that could set them back instead of moving them forward.

The challenges in responsible technology use

One of the biggest concerns among business leaders is the lack of clear government policies on how companies should handle these advancements. More than 80% of executives believe that unclear regulations make it difficult to invest confidently in new technologies. Without clear rules, businesses struggle to set long-term plans, fearing that sudden policy changes could disrupt their strategies.

Security is another major issue. While nearly 90% of top executives recognize the risks associated with technology, only about a quarter of security officers believe their companies have strong enough protections in place. This gap raises concerns about data breaches, misuse, and overall safety, which could lead to significant financial and reputational harm if not properly managed.

Companies are also struggling to prepare their employees for this shift. More than two-thirds of business leaders admit that their workforce does not have the necessary skills to work with new technology effectively. Many companies lack proper training programs, leaving employees unprepared for changes that could affect their daily responsibilities. Despite recognizing this issue, most businesses have yet to take action to bridge the skills gap.

Another challenge is the conflict between technological growth and environmental goals. Around 75% of executives say that their company’s ambitions in adopting new technology clash with sustainability targets. As businesses expand their use of energy-intensive computing systems, they are also facing pressure to reduce their environmental impact. This tension forces companies to rethink how they integrate innovation without compromising their commitments to sustainability.

The need for ethical leadership and strategic action

The study stresses the importance of leadership in ensuring that technology is used responsibly. Business leaders must take an active role in setting ethical standards, rather than waiting for government regulations to catch up. The responsibility to ensure transparency, security, and compliance should start at the top, with companies embedding these principles into their decision-making processes.

A crucial part of this effort is developing policies that go beyond simply following the law. While meeting legal requirements is necessary, companies must also consider the broader ethical and social impact of their decisions. This means creating guidelines that ensure new technologies are used in ways that benefit both businesses and society.

Preparing employees is another essential step. Companies must invest in training programs that help workers understand both the benefits and risks of these advancements. Without proper education, employees may struggle to adapt, which could lead to inefficiencies or even ethical missteps. By equipping their workforce with the right knowledge, companies can create a smoother transition and avoid unintended consequences.

Collaboration is also key to responsible technology use. Businesses must work together with industry groups, regulators, and policymakers to develop clear standards. A unified approach will help create policies that are consistent across industries, reducing confusion and making it easier for companies to follow best practices. Engaging in these conversations early will also allow businesses to have a voice in shaping the rules that will guide future developments.

Moving forward with responsibility and trust

The study makes it clear that companies cannot afford to take a passive approach to managing new technology. As the pace of change accelerates, those who fail to act responsibly risk falling behind. Ethical leadership, thoughtful policies, and well-prepared employees will be essential in making sure businesses can harness the benefits of innovation without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks.

NTT DATA’s report highlights the urgent need for companies to rethink their strategies and place ethical considerations at the center of their technology adoption plans. Organizations that take these steps now will not only protect themselves from potential setbacks but also gain a competitive advantage by building trust with customers, investors, and other stakeholders.

In the coming years, responsible leadership will determine which companies succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world. Those that prioritize security, transparency, and long-term sustainability will be in a stronger position to navigate the challenges ahead while continuing to drive innovation in a way that benefits both business and society.