Organizational Learning Challenges in e-Learning: Critical Success Factors Identified by SMEs to Ensure Economic Growth in the European Union

Abstract

<p>Digital skills have become a crucial point for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure economic growth in Europe. This empirical digital skills study is based on total 848 SMEs’ survey results, where research e-learning education needs in seven EU countries (Finland, Germany, Greece, Cyprus, Hungary, Italy, and Poland) and gives organizational guidelines for an e-learning platform that could develop SMEs’ digital skills and support employees’ efficient lifelong learning. The European population is actively working towards enhancing their skill set, a commitment that aligns with the goals of the European Skills Agenda 2020 and Digital Education Action Plan. These initiatives aim to boost digital skills and competencies to facilitate digital transformation while also promoting the development of a robust digital education system. In line with these objectives, the Digital Compass and the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan have set ambitious policy targets. They aspire to equip at least 80% of the population with basic skills and aim to cultivate 20 million ICT specialists in Europe by 2030. The research results illustrate the digital skills needs of SMEs and improve workers’ engagement and motivation to understand their digital skills gaps so that their upskilling increases the success and competitiveness of SMEs in the European Union.</p>