Cultivating the digital DNA through workforce training and engagement

THE Asia-Pacific's digital story is all about growth - massive growth. Digital is the key to addressing the wants and needs of current and future online consumers, who will represent half of Asia's population by 2020, up from one-third today. In fact, according to a recent report published by IDC and Microsoft, digital transformation will add an estimated US$1.16 trillion to the Asia-Pacific's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2021, and increase the growth rate by 0.8 per cent annually. Many organisations in the region have already formulated their digital strategies and adopted innovative technologies to become truly transformed businesses.

However, many lack a talent strategy optimised to support their digital business and technology plans. As Gary Beach, publisher emeritus of CIO magazine puts it: "The essence of digital success, after all, can be likened to the proverbial three-legged stool, consisting of these components: a comprehensive transformation strategy; a supporting digital technology strategy that factors in both new and legacy technology; and a multifaceted, multigenerational digital talent strategy. Without all three in place, a business' digital efforts will likely fail."

With labour market challenges in the region including rapidly ageing population, skills shortages or pressures caused by stringent work visa measures, creating a successful talent strategy is becoming a top priority for businesses in Asia.