Two thirds of UK companies see digital skills shortfall as biggest business challenge in 2021
Almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of businesses see a digital skills shortfall as one of the most significant challenges facing their company in 2021. This is according to new research from the FTSE 250 professional services firm, FDM Group.
The data was obtained via a Censuswide poll of 200 business decision-makers in large and medium sized companies, which surveyed them on their attitude to hiring and improving IT and digital skills for 2021.
Interestingly, 77 per cent of decision makers admitted that they already have plans to increase digital skills training budgets this year to support continued remote working. Additionally, 70 per cent plan to offer existing workers reskilling or refresher tech and IT courses, to help improve digital skills over the course of this year.
Over two-thirds (68 per cent) also agreed that they will increase their IT headcount to support remote working, which appears to be a fitting investment, with nearly half (47 per cent) of decision makers revealing that they have no plans to return to the office until at least 2022, even if it is deemed safe to do so later in the year.
Rod Flavell, CEO for FDM Group, comments: “The Covid-19 outbreak has wreaked havoc for businesses, with millions of workers missing out on vital digital skills development due to furlough and remote working constraints. With the added pressure of strict lockdown measures forcing many people to juggle childcare alongside their day job, companies need to move quickly to increase digital skills provision as a matter of urgency.
With remote working now a key part of our daily lives, the need for every employee to be digitally adept, computer literate and cyber safer should be top of the boardroom agenda. That’s why business should seek to hire in the latest IT talent, to boost technology skills within the workforce and help aid a speedy recovery in increasingly challenging times.”
More in Business Services
Reliable Vehicle Servicing and Repairs with Pete Thirtle
When it comes to maintaining and repairing your vehicle, trust and expertise are paramount. That’s why Pete Thirtle Vehicle Services stands out as one of the go-to independent garage for drivers in Bicester, Oxford, and the surrounding areas. With a reputation built on honesty, reliability, and top-tier service, Pete can ensure that your vehicle receives the best care possible. B4’s CEO, Richard Rosser, shines the spotlight on the ultra-reliable, Pete Thirtle.
Catering laundry solutions for spotless table linens by Freya Gutteridge, Oxwash
In the catering industry, pristine table linens are essential for enhancing both presentation and hygiene. Crisp, spotless linens create a professional atmosphere and ensure a safe dining environment for guests. Effective laundry solutions, such as the use of biodegradable detergents and advanced washing techniques, help maintain fabric quality and remove tough stains without harming the environment.
Intertronics: Driving Innovation in Adhesives and Assembly Solutions
For over four decades, Intertronics has been at the forefront of providing high-performance adhesives, coatings, sealants, and application equipment to industries that demand precision and reliability. From electronics and medical devices to automotive and aerospace, Intertronics’ expertise ensures that manufacturers can optimise their bonding and assembly processes with cutting-edge solutions.
From this author
COP26 Response from Anthony Baker, Founder of Satellite Vu
A big story has just come out of COP26, and reported by the BBC, that UK firms will soon be forced to show how they will hit net zero.
Over one third of online shoppers will only associate with responsible...
More than one third (35 per cent) of online shoppers in the UK will only associate with ‘responsible’ brands – including those that treat staff fairly, source goods ethically, and do not misuse consumer data.
HMRC-branded phishing scams surge 87% in a single year
Total reports of suspected email, SMS, and phone attacks jump from 572,029 to 1,069,522 during the Covid-19 pandemic