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25 Nov. 2019. It has been estimated that 85% of jobs that will exist in 2030 have yet to be invented, with most of them arising as a result of our continuing exploration of digital technologies and the rapid pace of change in the business world. Whereas not so long ago listing your proficiency with Microsoft Office was considered enough computer literacy to gain you a position within most companies now recruiters are looking for more. Is computer literacy now an essential skill for all industries? Is it possible to make it in business without embracing technology?
What is computer literacy?
Computer literacy is a continuously evolving term, whereas 10 years ago you would have been deemed computer literate for being able to use a floppy disk nowadays you are more likely to need to understand the cloud. The definition of computer literacy is constantly changing to encompass new areas of IT that have become part of our everyday normality and someone who was considered computer literate in the ’90s may well find themselves illiterate by today’s standards.
So how can we define computer literacy in the present day and what do you need to know to be considered computer literate? Well, because computer literacy is not standardized each company is able to have their own idea of what it means for their employees to be computer literate, whereas Apple may want their employees to have extensive knowledge of the latest Mac operating system, a local school may only require its employees to be able to understand basic word processing, email and spreadsheets. In general though for the present-day minimal computer literacy should encompass the following:
- The ability to create word documents, spreadsheets and basic presentations
It would be difficult for someone to be deemed computer literate without a basic grasp of how to create a word document, a spreadsheet and a simplistic Powerpoint presentation. The most common software to do this with is Microsoft Office, which is why it is still often cited on applicants resumes today to show their ability to conduct these simple tasks. - A basic understanding of computer security and how to protect yourself
In the same way that being able to legally drive a car encompasses not only the driver’s ability to operate the machine but an understanding of the potential road hazard they may encounter, someone who is computer literate should not only be able to use the basic functions of their device but understand the kinds of basic threats that our out there in the digital world and how they can protect themselves through having secure passwords, and digital common sense. - An understanding of network connectivity
Computers now come hand in hand with the internet and so it’s vital that a person has a basic understanding of network connectivity and how to get themselves online. - The ability to use a search engine
Search engines are powerful research tools and when used correctly can save you a lot of time. People should understand how to use search engines efficiently and be able to tell the difference between a sponsored link and one that ranks naturally. - An understanding of browsers
Not all browsers were created equal and some work better than others with certain programs. It’s important that an individual understands that there are multiple browsers available as well as how to open new windows, new tabs, create bookmarks and clear their history. - The ability to use email
Email is now one of the most relied upon means of communication across businesses which means it is vital that potential employees understand at least the basics of how to compose and send an email.
Is computer literacy essential?
Technology is now an intrinsic part of everyday life and someone with no computer or technological skills whatsoever will likely struggle to perform even the most basic of everyday tasks If the question as to whether computer literacy is essential had been asked 20 years ago, then answer would probably have been no, but now in 2019, it is a resounding yes, and is especially so in the business world. The way we work is changing, computers and laptops are now commonplace in most households making remote working more popular, saving companies rental fees on offices and enabling them to disregard their geographic location and hire top talent from around the world.
In a traditional office setting PC’s are a key tool for lead generation, customer support, communications and business administration with their importance highlighted by the fact that many companies now spend significant money outsourcing the welfare of their IT systems to third parties who offer Online Computers Support and Consulting Solutions. Even industries such as the health and social care sector, who are traditionally slow adopters of new technology, are making the shift and digitizing many of their processes by adopting more efficient systems. This all leaves very little room for someone without basic computer literacy in today’s competitive hiring market.
How can we learn and remain computer literate?
For our up and coming generations computer literacy is a part of their blood, most will have used a smartphone by the time they are five and many will go on to learn about computers in more depth than we may ever achieve in our lifetimes, with computer language now a part of the syllabus in some schools and technology more readily available than ever before .
For those of us who did not grow up with technology, however, learning computer literacy and remaining computer literate is more of a challenge and is something that we must consciously work on. Take advantage of any and all digital training resources available to you and make an effort to update your hardware and best-practice in line with the evolving industry. Don’t be afraid to ask your employer for more digital training, an understanding of computers today may not make you computer literate tomorrow, and so it is vital that to remain competitive within your workplace you endeavor to keep up with technological advancements.
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