New Data Literacy Skills Initiative to Help Non-IT Irish Workers Get Ahead in the Digital Age

A major data skills initiative to help thousands of non-IT Irish professionals to become data literate and keep pace with the digital revolution has been launched, supported by Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet in collaboration with Microsoft.

Data SMART is aimed at equipping professionals across Ireland who do not work in IT-based roles with the confidence and essential data skills – or data literacy – that they need to thrive in today’s workplace.

Created by the Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet in association with the Analytics Institute and Microsoft, thousands of non-tech workers can now ensure that their skills are current and relevant to a digital future.

Studies show that those staff that are familiar with core data skills will progress faster in their careers. Furthermore, research confirms that companies making data-driven decisions make faster market progress and revenue.

Data SMART will allow working professionals to acquire data literacy competence in a flexible, low-cost way during a 12-week learning window that combines online tutorials with hands-on, interactive workshops.

Participants will acquire skills in Data Collection and Cleaning, Data Transformation and Interpretation, Data Visualisation and Storytelling, as well as Ethics, Privacy, Security and Data Governance. A Data SMART Foundation Certificate in Data Skills will be awarded by the Analytics Institute and Microsoft to recognise participants’ new data skills.

Commenting at the launch of Data SMART in Microsoft HQ in Leopardstown, Dublin yesterday, Maire Hunt, Network Director of Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet, said:

“Data SMART is the most ambitious national upskilling opportunity for companies to adopt essential data skills that has been created to date. Our ambition is to train over 10,000 professionals from all backgrounds and across all sectors over the next three years.”

Lorcan Malone, Analytics Institute CEO, said:

“Already multiple companies have signed up for the Data SMART Initiative with companies able to train large numbers of staff in a very flexible, low-cost manner, with minimum impact on the flow of work. This will boost careers national and internationally, as well as enabling leaders to adopt a data driven approach to decisions in an increasing challenging commercial landscape.”

Microsoft, a world leader in technology, sees this initiative as a chance to equip Irish workers with practical data knowledge and provide a stepping stone to better skills and brighter career prospects.

Microsoft Ireland Head of Future Skilling, Dr Kevin Marshall, said:

“Microsoft Ireland is committed to providing upskilling opportunities for all. As organisations engage with the AI revolution, data analysis skills are fundamental. This initiative will equip individuals with crucial skills for effective data navigation and informed decision-making. We are pleased to collaborate with the Technolofgy Ireland Digital Skillnet and the Analytics Institute on this important programme.”

How to Apply for the Data SMART Initiative:

Data SMART is open to workers in the Republic of Ireland with part-funding available from Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet. Spaces are limited, so interested professionals are encouraged to apply soon. For more information and to sign up, visit www.datasmart.digitalskillnet.ie