Dubai: Tech-savvy employees are rapidly becoming more valuable to organisations and, in order to maintain a competitive edge, workers should stay up to date with the latest and learn to adapt new technologies.
Experts advise that as more companies integrate new innovations and systems into their day-to-day operations, technologically adept individuals are increasingly being sought after.
"There is no doubt that those who master new technologies can potentially make a difference to their organisations," notes Dr Marie Puybaraud, director of Global WorkPlace Innovation, the research arm of Johnson Controls Global WorkPlace Solutions.
"Everyone has to use technology in the workplace to a degree. You have to remember that technology can create competitive advantage, so restrictions on it could hamper performance."
Technology has made working a lot easier and cheaper, particularly in the areas of research, communications, project management and analysis.
The rising popularity of social networking sites has prompted many companies to use social media as a major part of their marketing strategy. As a result, new jobs have been created such as "online community manager" or "social networking manager", according to Lama Ataya, chief marketing officer of Bayt.com
However, Ataya says, each industry or job role requires a different level of "tech-savviness". "It is true that most companies are becoming more vigilant in terms of selecting employees who are proficient with new technologies."
Employees from all walks of life are well advised to stay abreast of technology trends "as relates to their own industry" and to make technology their friend, not their foe.
Employees should take advantage of technology tutorials and training courses, which abound the internet, as well as published books designed to meet everyone's requirements.
"And we live in a region replete with technology training institutions, so the essential business of upgrading one's IT skills regularly is made that much easier for us," Ataya says.
However, experts note that there is still a gap between employees who live and breathe technology and those who are reluctant to adapt new tools. The gap is evident among young workers and their senior peers. "A technology gap does exist, but it will lessen because people's ability to embrace and understand new technologies is increasing," says Puybaraud.
Smooth integration
"Today, the adoption of new technologies in the workplace like an iPad tablet is far smoother because people are used to interacting with new technologies, both at home and in the workplace."
"Some senior level employees may just need more support than others.
"Executives are really starting to realise the significant performance benefits that technology can offer to their business. "We have found that executives are keener to embrace the latest technologies in the office because they understand the difference that it can make to their productivity when done correctly."
