Smart Technologies, Digital Competencies, and Workforce Development

Abstract

A mixed methods case study of the Government of Canada provides a lens through which the skills development and training and development challenges confronting the public sector in an era of digitization and smart technologies can be examined. Findings related to four key inter-related themes emerged from the analysis of survey and interview data: i) current skills sufficiencies will be challenged by coming demands; ii) digital transformation is recognized as critical, but requires significant cultural and organizational change; iii) employees are uncertain about the use of smart technologies; and iv) there is a demand for expanded training opportunities to address these challenges. These findings reflect the broader context, in particular the increasing importance of hybrid skill sets that transcend traditional boundaries between technical and non-technical functions and skills, and the need for more open and integrative venues for discussion of and training regarding digital initiatives.