Tip: Activate javascript to be able to use all functions of our website

News from 2020-02-04 / KfW Research

Digital skills shortage is hampering German SMEs’ digital transformation

Is upskilling the answer?

One third of SMEs cannot meet their digital skill requirements. The problem applies not just to basic digital skills, such as the use of standard software and digital devices, but also to advanced skills such as programming and statistical data analysis. Most SMEs attempt to build digital skills through further training. But short training measures with often limited skill-building effects predominate. More intensive training is hampered primarily by financial barriers. One third of SMEs describe the direct costs as a problem, while one quarter are challenged by employees’ absence from work. Digital learning formats enable more flexible learning, so they have the potential to stimulate further training in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Digital skills shortage is hampering German SMEs’ digital transformation – is upskilling the answer?

Press release

Contact

KfW Research

KfW Group

Palmengartenstrasse 5-9

60325 Frankfurt

Germany

To KfW Research

Economic Research

Economic Research

Economic development in Germany and around the world, studies on topics relevant to society such as environmental and climate protection, demography, globalisation, innovation and sustainability, impact of KfW promotional programmes.

Read more