Actionable strategies to foster digital literacy for competitive advantage
Research from ADAPT demonstrates the strong correlation between digital literacy and modernisation success. At GWI, we have unique expertise in fostering digital literacy for competitive advantage. In this blog, we demonstrate actionable strategies for building digital capabilities and literacy.
Digital literacy is the ability to effectively find, evaluate, use, create, and communicate information using digital technologies.
Basic digital literacy means being able to:
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- Use digital devices, software, and applications with confidence.
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- Communicate, collaborate and share information using contemporary digital tools.
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- Handle and access data using digital tools appropriately, effectively and securely.
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- Stay safe online and prevent doing harm to others.
It is important to understand which digital competencies are critical to gaining competitive advantage in your industry.
Why is digital literacy a competitive advantage?
Digitally literate individuals:
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- Can make more informed decisions faster.
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- Learn and adapt to new technologies, tools, and platforms more quickly than individuals who are not literate. This adaptability is crucial in staying competitive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
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- Are generally more productive and efficient.
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- Are more likely to understand and implement robust cybersecurity measures, protecting sensitive data and maintaining customer trust.
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- Are more likely to have a higher level of data literacy maturity.
Digitally literate organisations:
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- Can differentiate themselves by offering superior products and services to their competitors.
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- Provide superior customer service and experiences by leveraging digital channels for personalised communication, faster service delivery, and improved customer support.
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- Can drive the adoption of more sustainable practices through the efficient use of resources, reducing waste and minimising environmental impact.
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- Are more attractive to highly skilled employees seeking digital excellence, leading to a more innovative and competitive workforce.
Actionable strategies to foster digital literacy
1. Develop digital career pathways
Assess existing workforce skills against a Digital Capability Framework and develop customised pathways for career progression to achieve the desired level of digital capability.
Why do it?
This will motivate employees by linking digital skill development to tangible career growth opportunities, increasing engagement and retention.
2. Empower ‘digital champions’
Building digital champions within the organisation involves identifying, empowering, and supporting employees who can lead and advocate for digital and service transformation.
Why do it?
This creates a network of go-to experts within the company, fostering a self-sustaining culture of digital literacy.
3. Promote cross-functional collaboration
Facilitate opportunities for employees to gain experience in different business areas where digital skills are critical. This could include temporary assignments, job rotations, or collaborative projects.
Why do it?
This fosters a culture of knowledge sharing more broadly across the organisation, leading to more innovative solutions and a cohesive approach to digital service transformation.
4. Integrate digital literacy into organisational strategy
Ensure that digital literacy is embedded in the company’s strategic goals, aligning it with key business objectives and performance metrics.
Why do it?
This drives a top-down commitment to digital literacy, making it a priority for all employees ensuring its alignment with business outcomes and success.
5. Build a culture of digital learning
In a culture of digital learning, employees are empowered to continuously develop their skills, stay ahead of technological advancements, and be committed to the organisation’s long-term success.
Why do it?
This keeps employees current with emerging technologies, enhancing their productivity, role satisfaction and the organisation’s adaptability. It sets a tone at the top that underscores the value of digital learning, motivating employees to follow suit.
6. Measure impact
Determine what success looks like for your organisation/industry and employees to gain competitive advantage.
Why do it?
This ensures digital learning initiatives remain relevant and effective, continuously meeting the evolving needs of the organisation and its employees.
Digital literacy is a journey
Our digitally-driven economy demands the timely adoption of data and digital technologies and requires constantly evolving mindsets, skills, processes and tools to create a culture that thrives in a digital era.
If you’re ready to unlock the potential of your organisation, we want to work with you! Get in touch with the GWI team today to leverage digital literacy for competitive advantage. Contact us.
