Author: Steve Lasenby, Programmes Manager
So, what is meant by the term ‘digital skills’?
Well, digital skills are defined as a range of abilities to use digital devices, communication applications and networks to access and manage information. Examples of such abilities? To find, evaluate, use, share and create content using digital devices.
It is understood that over 80% of all jobs advertised now require digital skills, however employers say the lack of available talent is the single biggest factor holding back growth.
A jurisdiction with a workforce that has extensive, varied digital skill sets, provides an attractive destination for new business start-ups and business relocations as well as growth and scaling-up potential for existing locally based businesses. There are a host of other benefits that come with a working population that has high levels of digital skills, namely:
+ Meeting the general digital needs of business, both for internal operations and client services.
+ Opportunities for future job creation.
+ Increased diversity of industry/business sectors with the introduction of new businesses.
+ Increased tax generation from the growth of existing businesses and the launch of new businesses to the Island – more funds for public services.
+ Enhanced social mobility – digital skills enable people to access goods and services (including public services) online and via email.
+ Attractive business investment opportunities for venture capital investment companies and other outside investment.
+ A pro-innovation business environment promoting entrepreneurism.
+ Well-positioned to lead in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence.
+ A resilient, safe digital environment for individuals, businesses and government with the know-how and systems available to effectively combat cyber security threats.
Here at the GTA University Centre, we offer a wide range of digital skills training courses and professional qualifications that can either be delivered at the GTA training suites in St Peter Port, Guernsey, in-house at the client’s office or online in the comfort of the delegate’s home or office. In addition, bespoke courses can be created to be delivered in-house to meet company requirements.
Learn more HERE