Training Public Officials in Digital Skills: An Investment, Not a Cost

The missing link in digitalisation projects

Many public institution digitalisation projects fail not for lack of technology budget, but for lack of adoption by staff. Management software without adequate training remains under-used, or is bypassed altogether. Training therefore needs to be designed into the project from the outset, not treated as a closing activity.

Three complementary formats

An effective offer combines in-person sessions for fundamentals, remote learning for continuous upskilling and blended learning for professional certifications. Each format serves a different purpose: understand, practise and then consolidate over time.

Design training that is useful

• start from real work situations rather than a generic catalogue;
• include exercises using the tools people actually use;
• identify internal champions who can support colleagues;
• provide support after training, when practical issues arise.

Measuring impact

Beyond certificates issued, the most telling indicator remains the actual usage rate of deployed tools six months after training. Fewer errors, shorter processing times and user satisfaction also show concrete value.