AI Agents as Digital Coworkers: What ERP, HCM Buyers Must Prepare for by 2026
AI (artificial intelligence) agents are set to become key members of the workforce by 2026, and ERP (enterprise resource planning) and HCM (human capital management) buyers need to prepare for this shift, according to Tarsilla Moura, Content Director at ERP Today. In a recent article Moura explains how enterprise software is moving from supporting just human workers to integrating AI agents that can independently handle tasks and processes. This change means businesses will need to update their tech stacks and rethink how they manage their workforce to stay competitive.
By 2026, the top HCM platforms are expected to add features that manage digital employees, or AI agents, who will take on complex tasks across multiple systems. These digital workers will become a core part of a hybrid human-AI workforce, improving everything from workforce planning to efficiency. Moura also predicts that many enterprise vendors will introduce Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to allow AI agents to work across different platforms without being locked into one vendor. With rising AI regulations, ERP systems will also need to include features like explainable AI and real-time compliance monitoring to meet industry standards.
As AI-driven changes reshape the way we work, businesses will need to adapt their ERP systems to accommodate digital agents, ensuring their platforms can handle AI-powered workflows and governance. Those who move early will have a competitive edge, while lagging behind could risk falling short on compliance and efficiency.
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