Dive Brief:
- Businesses are adapting to a digital environment, according to a report by MIT Sloan Management Review and Deloitte. Deloitte’s fourth annual study of digital business reveals the differences facing employers today versus those of the past.
- Over 4,000 managers and analysts were surveyed. For the first time in four years, an uptick in how respondents are evaluating their company’s digital maturity occurred. The survey suggests more companies recognize the potential of digital disruption and are beginning to act.
- To face the disruption, companies are looking to upskill current employees over hiring externally. More than 50% report needing new leaders for the digital revolution. Almost all (90%) of those surveyed agree they need training at least once annually, and nearly half believe ongoing training is needed. But only 34% are satisfied with the support they get from their employers for ongoing skill development.
Dive Insight:
The workplace of the future will need to incorporate a digital culture as well as digital tools, research suggests. Leaders who look for the tools that promise increased potential and productivity, but who lack a digital culture that nurtures learning and access to tech will probably not see engagement or productivity gains. Data show digitally superior companies do better at attracting and retaining top talent.
Globally, one-third of CHROs believe their primary function is to digitize their workplace to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. More than half, 56%, believe their future will be creating a “digital, consumerized employee experience.”
Digital talent shortages continue to dog recruiters, which could be urging business to train from within. Although soft skills are a top training priority for business, digital training in a host of disciplines, from AR to VR, digital credentialing and more continue to push employers into the digital age. Predictions that tech like AI will create more jobs than it eliminates may bolster confidence among workers that tech will enhance their jobs, rather than push them out of the workforce.
