Digital construction skills (DCS)

In April 2022 the Construction Industry Trading Board (CITB) announced free access to their Digital Construction Skills (DCS) initiative. The DCS team supports SMEs with the digital training and skills development needed to benefit from digitisation in a modern business context. The website (available via the link below) states:

'We’ve been in business for over 13 years, supporting SMEs with digital construction skills training, upskilling and business improvement through our Setting Out for Construction business. We’re not resellers of any third party products and are proud of our reputation for integrity, high-quality training and independence.'

The first step to access is a free 15-minute consultation for advice and to tailor the offer for the SMEs:

Select and implement the right digital solutions for your business.
Develop digital leadership skills to help you drive digital change in your company.
Create a digital strategy that aligns with your business goals.
Write a training plan that will support your digital aspirations.

A wide variety of services are available free of charge, on a first come first serve basis until July 2022, these include:

Digital construction helpline.
Digital leadership mentoring.
In-house facilitated workshops and CPD sessions.
CITB assured training courses either as in-house training or as self-paced distance learning.
eLearning modules.
Connecting with support services.
Connecting with specialist support.
Help to access funding.
Technical advice.
Self-assessment tools.

The web platform of the program has a number of e-learning courses available:

The Managing Director of Digital Constructions Skills, Saffron Grant said: “Digital leadership skills are so important because the way we work is changing. Understanding the benefits of digital technologies, and how they can help you achieve your business goals can ensure your business remains competitive and profitable in a rapidly changing landscape. This mentoring service can help you select the digital tools that are right for your company and get the very best out of them. The programme is supported by free e-Learning modules, training courses and other valuable resources.”