30 Jan Digital Progress in Europe

Microsoft has developed the Digital Future Index. This tool operates on data analysis and allows you to calculate the progress in the process of digitization of European countries. Some of them can already be considered digitization leaders, but there is still a lot to do to fully use the potential of the region.

The Digital Future Index

The Digital Future Index shows that significantly better socio-economic indicators can be observed in the most digitally advanced countries. In addition, these countries are more ecological, competitive and innovative.

Central and Eastern Europe have their leaders. Among them, it is worth mentioning Malta and Estonia, which are seen as the countries that are digital revolution leaders in social services.

The Digital Future Index analyses many areas that undergo digital transformation. Although a few countries have been thriving in some areas, they have been far behind the rest in other aspects. Unfortunately, a vast disproportion can also be noticed for Poland which is about to face many challenges in order to catch up with such countries as Malta and Estonia in terms of digital advancement.

There is still a lot of work to be done by Central and Eastern European countries in order to reach the level similar to that of the USA or China. However, the challenge is worth taking. Thanks to the implementation of modern technology, our region can gain more by creating the “digitalized” future and higher competitiveness of the whole society.

In the Race for Leadership

Investing in digitalization and technologies is the key to higher competitiveness and fulfilling increasingly higher consumer expectations. Economic and social results of countries are greatly impacted by infrastructure outlays and the position of business in the “digital competitiveness” ranking. Cloud computing is inseparably tied with innovativeness.

According to research, digital enterprises are the force that drives progress. In addition to investment, competence, leadership based on modern technology and increasingly popular hybrid work culture are of equal importance.

IT Talents Enhance Digital Transformation

With the increased number of IT experts, companies can boost their innovativeness and effectiveness across all business areas. Educated experts can use digital tools more effectively across the entire organization. They are often responsible for digitalization processes.

Of course, not only IT experts play an important role. Managers, who are aware of modern technologies, have a great impact.

Research shows that higher digital competence of managers translates into increased competitiveness of an organization. Directors and owners who are aware of the benefits of digitalization are more willing to make decisions that can bring more strategic value.

The Hybrid Work Model Is Becoming the Element of a Daily Strategy

Work culture requirements changed for good. Traditional methods of working in the office discourage employees, making them choose companies that offer them remote work opportunities. Research indicates that the pandemic has significantly influenced the number of innovations and solutions designed to create remote work opportunities or improve work efficiency.

Flexibility becomes a keyword. It turns out that hybrid work ensures the best results. This work model enables every employee to achieve the best results in a comfortable environment. Digital transformation is the only chance for businesses to retain talented employees. Not only at the company, but also in Europe.

Inaction and reluctance to change threaten the interests of employees, organizations and the whole region of Central and Eastern Europe. These are the reasons why market education is of such an importance. Building awareness of the benefits of digital changes and the dangers of stagnation are also the key goals.

Digitalization Worth Its Weight in Gold

Research show that raising digital qualifications leads to higher productivity and an increase of income level. Evidently, countries of the region can cope with the two basic phenomena that have been worrying politicians, thanks to digitization.

Companies can contribute by educating their employees. The better knowledge and understanding of digitization employees have, the more they can offer their organizations. It is worth investing in people and their talents.

Europe as a Leader?

Europe wants to become a leader of global digital economy. In comparison with countries like the USA or China, the Old Continent is dealing with a growing deficit of innovations. Europe has been investing in improvements, but disproportions between the development levels of the regions are still significant.

In order to strengthen their position, countries and companies should ensure the appropriate pace of development and implementation of technological novelties. They should also ensure:

• skills development opportunities for their digital workers, especially managers;
• education about the role of digital transformation for the society;
• support in implementing digital technologies in enterprises;
• hybrid work culture that ensures productivity in all areas to their employees.

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