15:45 - 16:25 Data Architecture, Platforms & Infrastructure Theatre
Why Their Brains Hate New Tech (and What to Do About It)
Thursday 23rd April 2026
About
Why do smart, capable teams hesitate when new tools are introduced… even when the benefits seem obvious?
The answer isn’t resistance or lack of will … it’s how our brains are wired.
This session explores the neuroscience and evolutionary psychology behind resistance to change, from threat perception in the brain to cognitive load and habit formation. We’ll discover why new technology can trigger stress responses, how uncertainty affects decision-making, and why logic alone rarely drives adoption. By translating human biology into practical strategies, this session helps leaders, analysts, and technologists design change approaches that work with the brain – supporting confidence, capability, and psychological safety – rather than unintentionally overwhelming it.
Takeaways
- Understand the brain mechanisms that drive resistance to change
- Learn why “better tools” aren’t enough to change behaviour
- Identify biological triggers that block technology adoption
- Apply neuroscience based techniques to improve uptake and usage
See speaker profile