Businesses require modern technology to be competitive —Microsoft
Microsoft says businesses need to employ modern technology and skills that will make them relevant and give them a competitive edge if they hope to lead in the digital age. This was disclosed by the Business Development Manager at Microsoft for Africa, Soromfe Uzomah, during the just ended Social Media Week in Lagos.
“For businesses to be relevant and appeal to today’s audience, technology has to be a key part of your business. Whether you develop a mobile app or online shop, you should be using technology to offer your customers a better, more intuitive and convenient experience”, Uzomah said. He hinted that businesses looking to thrive in the digital age should have employees who are digitally literate. This, according to him, includes having skills in data analytics; cloud computing; software development and programming. The manager however noted that developing and finding these skills is often a challenge, saying there are initiatives in place to help. Tech giants, for example, he said, are launching online learning platforms in Africa, where entrepreneurs can develop high-level digital skills for free. In addition, Uzomah stated: “In West Africa, Microsoft – through its 4Afrika Initiative – is running an AppFactory and internship programme, and working with local start-ups, to both develop and supply small businesses with digital literacy skills.”
