According to new research published in Canva’s annual ‘State of Visual Communication Report’, there is a significant disconnect between how Gen Z employees want to work and how most companies still operate.
While 94 per cent of Gen Z professionals in India say they do their best work visually, and neuroscience confirms the power of visual content, only 22 per cent of organisations globally describe themselves as “design-led,” creating friction that slows productivity and undermines engagement.
With four generations working side by side, each with distinct communication preferences, companies are navigating rising inefficiencies as visual and traditional approaches clash, says the report. It suggests that leaders who embrace Gen Z’s visual-first working style can improve efficiency, elevate creative output and better attract and retain talent as the workforce evolves.
According to the report, and backed by neuroscience, high quality visual content triggers faster memory encoding and more emotional intensity. Whereas in text based communication, a majority of respondents report losing interest. Incidentally,
AI makes the task of introducing visual components to communication dockets easier.
Published on September 15, 2025