By understanding digital skills gaps we can not only help businesses survive but will also enable existing businesses to adapt and innovate, attract new business growth, and create a more resilient and inclusive workforce and economic base for the future.

The survey covers areas from recruiting staff and providing training and learning, to building skill sets and identifying future digital requirements. And, responses will allow us to understand business strengths and gaps to allow us and our partners to focus on supporting the needs of business, now and in the longer term.

The Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way some businesses are operating, with many having to respond to changes in work practices and consumer habits, while others are struggling to adapt and stay afloat.

For one small business it could be something as simple as setting up a website to allow consumers to shop online and place orders, for others it could be learning how to integrate Artificial Intelligence into their production process to increase efficiency.

“Together with our partners the council plays an important role in supporting local businesses,” explained Councillor Allan Graham, Convener of Enterprise and Growth, “and this support has never been more vital.

“We’re asking businesses to tell us about their digital experiences and how important these skills are currently, and how important do they see them in the future as we emerge from the pandemic and recover economically.

“As we see the economy slowly opening across the country, with circumstances varying for different sectors, we will continue to provide help and advice to local businesses and this survey will help us effectively target our resources to where they will have the greatest effect to support economic recovery and growth.”

Please complete our survey. The more information we can gather about the Digital Skills landscape across North Lanarkshire the more we can consider ways to support our local business community.

The survey is made up a series of questions (many of which are simple drop-down options) that should take no longer than 10 minutes to complete, and has a closing date of 31st March.