How Dynamics 365 apprentices can reduce the digital skills gap
In early November 2016, Microsoft revealed an updated cloud platform that combines their previous ERP products (Dynamics AX and Dynamics NAV) with Dynamics CRM. The released product, Dynamics 365, provides businesses with an evolving SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) offering that scales to support the client.
Yet, two years on from the release, businesses across Europe are facing a shortage of Microsoft Dynamics specialists (Maximus IT). The shortage of Dynamics 365 Specialists is a result of something that’s affecting most of the UK — a decrease in the level of digital skills.
The digital skills gap is growing
A study by the British Chambers of Commerce found that 75% of UK businesses are suffering from a general lack of digital skills. Combine this with the fact the digital economy is growing 50% faster than the traditional economy and it’s not hard to understand why upskilling your workforce with IT skills is absolutely vital.
Businesses need to keep up with their surroundings, especially as “90% of all future jobs will require digital skills and… the UK will need more than 1.2 million new technical and digitally skilled people by 2022 to satisfy future skills needs,” added Bill Mitchell, BCS Director of Education.
Rather than search for cloud skills, UK businesses need to actively introduce digital skills training if they seek to remain competitive in their industry.
All levels of the organisation are affected
It’s not just new staff that are the focus for skill development. As organisational logistics and client management constantly update on cloud platforms, there needs to be an emphasis on IT training at all levels of the organisation, not just for new starters.
At the end of last year, a recent study for Barclays found that only 23% of workers aged 35 to 54 had the confidence to keep up with an increasingly technological working environment. The study also found a reoccurring mismatch between the demand for worker skills and the level of skill they actually possess.
Overall, 63% of jobs advertised required “above basic” digital skills while, at the same time, over 43% of people believe they lack these skills.
Addressing the results of the study, Barclays UK CEO, Ashok Vaswani stated that, “Where you live, how old you are, what you do, and your education level have an impact on your digital abilities and confidence. Digital skills can boost finances and everyone deserves the opportunity to benefit.”
Using your Apprenticeship Levy to introduce IT Apprenticeships is a great solution to this issue.
Tackle the digital skills gap with Microsoft Dynamics 365
Large technology companies like Microsoft are redesigning the way organisations do business online. As Cloud Computing is adopted above 88% in the UK according to IT forums, UK businesses are swapping localised platforms for SaaS cloud offerings.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is one of the most popular complete cloud solutions, combining ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CRM (Consumer Relationship Management) to create a virtual platform that receives large updates annually.
If your business uses Dynamics 365, you need to keep your workforce up-to-date with frequent change. A great way to upskill new and existing staff fast are Microsoft-certified Apprenticeships.
Close your digital skills gap with Firebrand
For the past twelve years in a row, we’ve been named one of the Top 20 IT Training Companies in the World. We offer accelerated courses, Apprenticeships, and Skills Bootcamps to help your team get certified and return to work in half the time.
At Firebrand, we are an official Microsoft Partner. We can help you spend your Levy effectively on Dynamics Apprenticeships that ensure your business is up-to-date with Cloud changes.
Perhaps one of our Apprenticeship standards is right for you? See them all.