As the world becomes increasingly digital, New Zealand businesses find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. The global transition to digital operations is not merely a trend; it is a fundamental shift that demands immediate action. For Kiwi companies, embracing digital literacy is no longer optional but essential for thriving in a competitive landscape.
This necessity extends beyond merely keeping pace with industry advancements; it is about ensuring survival and resilience in a rapidly evolving market. By prioritizing digital skills, New Zealand businesses can unlock new opportunities, enhance productivity, and secure their place in the future economy.
According to a report by MBIE, investing in digital skills can help Kiwi businesses streamline their operations, expand customer reach, and improve overall efficiency. Digital tools empower small businesses to overcome resource constraints, making them more agile and competitive in the global market.
For example, platforms like Digital Boost, funded by MBIE, are designed to help local businesses quickly get up to speed with essential digital skills. Offering tailored learning through over 1,400 bite-sized videos, Digital Boost has already empowered companies in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and tourism.
Despite the rapid adoption of digital technologies, New Zealand still faces a significant digital skills gap. Many companies struggle to find qualified staff for IT and digital roles. A report highlighted that while over 4,000 new tech jobs were created in 2019, many businesses were unable to fill them due to a lack of local talent. This problem is only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has restricted the inflow of skilled international workers.
The solution lies in upskilling the current workforce. New Zealand’s business community must invest in providing digital training for their staff and future employees, or they risk falling behind. Encouragingly, some initiatives like the Regional Workforce Plans suggest that local companies need to take a proactive stance, integrating digital skills development into their hiring and career progression frameworks.
For Kiwi businesses, the stakes are high. Companies that embrace digital education will be well-positioned to harness the potential of emerging technologies such as AI, automation, and data analytics. These tools can enhance productivity and create new growth opportunities. On the other hand, those slow to adopt digital skills risk losing out, both in terms of operational efficiency and market share.
Beyond operational improvements, businesses that actively invest in upskilling their staff will also enjoy higher retention rates and a stronger company culture. With nearly one in five IT professionals in New Zealand changing jobs annually, creating opportunities for professional growth through digital literacy can help businesses retain critical talent.
The path to a prosperous digital future for New Zealand lies in strategic investment in digital education. Whether it’s utilising platforms like Digital Boost or implementing in-house training programmes, businesses must recognise that digital skills are no longer optional—they are essential for survival and growth in today’s economy.
Ultimately, companies that embrace this shift not only enhance their productivity but also contribute to New Zealand’s broader economic recovery, creating a digitally-skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of tomorrow.
By equipping your teams with the right skills today, Kiwi business owners can ensure that their companies thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.
