ERIC Number: EJ1450970
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 21
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0304-3797
EISSN: EISSN-1469-5898
Empowering SMEs for the Digital Future: Unveiling Training Needs and Nurturing Ecosystem Support
European Journal of Engineering Education, v49 n6 p1158-1178 2024
Previous studies show that digital transition brings several benefits and challenges for companies. Among those challenges, particularly for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), the main one is increased capacitation, from technical roles to management. Considering this, the main objective of this study is to identify the training needs and the ecosystem support in the face of the digital transition for Portuguese manufacturing SMEs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with industry experts and company professionals in the automotive and textile sectors. It was concluded that all workers, from technical roles to middle and top management, need more digital capabilities and would benefit from training programmes. The most desired areas for training are data science, virtualisation skills, quality assurance, technical training, and soft skills. The preferred format is physical (or hybrid at most) during working hours and with theoretical training before on-the-job learning. Both industrial companies and experts believe in the value of involving external entities in the training of employees, with the three most referred entities being technology and interface centres, universities, and business associations.
Descriptors: Small Businesses, Educational Needs, Ecology, Job Skills, Skill Development, Innovation, Foreign Countries, Manufacturing Industry, Motor Vehicles, Finishing, Textiles Instruction, Digital Literacy, Data Science, Quality Assurance, Soft Skills, On the Job Training, Preferences, Technological Advancement
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Portugal
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A