New initiative addresses poor computer skills

In five years one million Kiwis will have internationally recognised qualifications proving their proficiency in core computer skills – that’s the goal of Auckland businesswoman Pam Martin. The Kiwi Computer Challenge, launched in April, benchmarks the country by using foundation qualifications such as Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC³), to ensure all New Zealanders have the key computer knowledge and skills for the jobs and homes of the future.
Martin’s book Beneath the Knowledge Wave describes this country’s productivity predicament, illustrated with true stories of people trying to get to grips with computers, without training or support. Many fake competency for fear of losing face, or their jobs.
“Most of us are self-taught,” says Martin. “We can find our way around a computer day to day – but often not effectively or efficiently. As a result our productivity is leaking out through the holes in our computer skills.
“New Zealand’s planned multi-million dollar investment in fast broadband and fibre optics will provide great benefits if we know how to use it. The Challenge will ensure that we have the skills and knowledge to take advantage of those opportunities.”
Martin says small business owners, in particular, may be passionate about their businesses but often don’t realise the risk and issues that poor computer skills can create. She knows of many horror stories – for example, the woman who had set up her business and used a laptop for everything. “Unfortunately because she didn’t know how to back it up she lost three years work when her car and laptop were stolen.” 
And then there are business people who don’t know how to use a spreadsheet to create a cashflow forecast. “We know of people who do their calculations on a calculator and then type them into Excel,” says Martin. “There are still businesses that operate without any computers at all. They even run their payroll manually.”
Martin believes organic marketing will spread the Challenge’s message. “You can tell someone they need to learn how to use a computer and they may agree, but how do you motivate them to actually do it? 
“We need to get people talking, show them how it applies to their business and then help motivate them to learn. As businesses complete the certification and understand the value, they will spread the word to their friends and families, clients and suppliers.”
Large organisations need the training just as much as individuals and smaller businesses, says Martin. “As they learn they will pass the ideas and stories on to their clients. In particular, customer-facing organisations such as banks, insurance companies, retailers and service providers can help the small businesses who use their services to become more productive and make better use of their products.”
People like the fact that the Challenge is people powered, adds Martin. “It hasn’t come from a Government department or some task force. This idea came from someone who understands the challenges of running a small business without solid computer skills and wants to make a difference.” 
The Challenge has the support of organisations such as the Information and Communication Technologies Group (NZICT), which represents ICT vendors. CEO Brett O’Riley believes the Challenge is a valuable initiative.
“New Zealand not only needs to address its digital literacy shortfall, but prepare for the future demands that the Digital Economy will put on the country.”
For more information visit kiwicomputerchallenge.co.nz. There is no cost to sign up to the Challenge, says Martin, but a Members Plus subscription option allows organisations to get more involved, actively promote the Challenge and enjoy other benefits such as access to discounted computer courses. 
“The main certification we are recommending is Internet and Computer Core Certification (IC³). Positive Connexions, the home of the Kiwi Computer Challenge, offers a complete certification package for $345 plus GST per person or $390 plus GST with online reporting for employers. Details are available at positiveconnexions.co.nz.”