In a recent episode of the We-Learning podcast, Viktor Bálint, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer at Codecool, broke down why our approach to digital skills needs a major rethink—and what “being digitally ready” really means in today’s world of constant change.
Here are the key takeaways from the conversation.
Mistaking Tool Use for Digital Competence
Too many companies still treat digital skills as a checklist—Excel, ERP systems, CRM tools. If someone can click the right buttons, they’re “digitally ready.” If not? Off to training to learn where to click.
But digital competence isn’t about knowing how to use a tool. It’s about knowing why you’re using it—and being able to ask the right questions about your work and the challenges ahead.
True digital competence is deeper: it’s about understanding systems, thinking critically, and bridging the gap between business and tech. It’s not just technical. It’s strategic.
The Hidden Costs of a Tool-First Mindset
Reducing digital literacy to tool use comes at a cost:
- It excludes valuable talent – Not everyone is “techy,” but many bring insight, creativity, and critical thinking that tools alone can’t replace.
- It narrows our thinking – Limited tools mean limited solutions. If every tool is a hammer, every problem starts to look like a nail.
- It blinds us to the future – Especially with AI on the rise, new tools demand new thinking. Without that mindset, we won’t know what to do with them.
4 Ways to Rethink Digital Skills Development
Digital literacy should be accessible to everyone, but raising the bar is a shared responsibility. Schools, parents, institutions, and society all play a role.
Still, companies don’t need to wait. They can start today by adopting a more intentional and strategic approach to digital skills development.
- Fix the process before you automate
Digitising a broken process isn’t innovation—it’s just scaling inefficiency. Start by mapping your value chain and truly understanding how your business works. Automation should come after clarity, not before. - Train for strategy, not for show
Generic training won’t close real gaps. Focus on the competencies that match your tech and business goals. That’s why we use skill maps—not course catalogues—to tailor development to what actually moves the needle. - Relearn how to learn
PowerPoint slides don’t drive transformation. Real learning happens in conversations, experiments, and shared problem-solving. When people ask, challenge, and try—that’s where growth begins. - Create a safe space to grow
Resistance often masks fear—of failing, or asking the “wrong” question. Build a culture where it’s safe to try, fail, and learn. A supportive environment isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for progress.
Summary
Digital competence isn’t a course or a checklist. It’s a mindset—rooted in curiosity, openness, and a clear understanding of how we connect with technology in our daily work.
Take it seriously, and the payoff is clear: stronger teams, smarter decisions, and the confidence to lead in a world that won’t slow down.