In general, digital problem-solving skills are skills required in the workplace to use digital evidence to solve problems and answer questions. This skill can only be developed if employees have a good understanding of the why, when, and how relating to the technology being used in the organisation. If an employee has only learned a process and doesn’t understand the wider context they won’t be able to problem-solve. As the digital world gains pace, we are introduced to more challenges both in the workplace and our daily lives, information from the University of Leeds website shows. It mentions tools such as ExpertTrack that can help one develop problem solving skills, explore techniques like design thinking, and understand the importance of using data to make more informed decisions and find solutions to problems at work. Using practical examples and tips from employers, one can have the opportunity to identify and use design skills and software to solve simple problems. To achieve this, Obedi Unesha, a supervisor at Super Motors, a company that deals with Motorcycle repairs says in this era where everything is digital, having digital problem-solving skills is essential for any individual. Research indicates that digital problem solving is described as being related to, but unique from, digital literacies and basic digital skills. Specifically, digital problem solving involves the use of the skills, strategies, and approaches (including mindsets) needed to navigate online in everyday contexts. It also includes use novel resources, tools, and interfaces in efficient and flexible ways to accomplish personal and professional goals. How to go about it Dan Obilo, an IT expert in Kigali says that depending on the problem intended to solved, be it at the workplace or anywhere, establishing an online help forum, which only takes a few minutes depending on how skilled an individual is, is very important. With organisations, Obilo says it’s even better because some have chat facilities on their websites. This means that one can talk to a real person, in real-time, who will talk you through whatever problem you’re having. Digital-age problem solving combines three key skills and concepts essential to understanding and solving problems in the information age: data literacy, design thinking, and computational thinking, indicates data on Friday Institute for Educational Innovation website. Obedi says with digital problem-solving skills, one can make use of dialogues for everything from a problem they have, and this could also include using emails. “Depending on who you are conversing with, it’s important to be careful while using chats as a mode of communication when it comes to solving issues. Remaining professional in all circumstances especially when it comes to getting help from your seniors is vital,” he says. Also, he says that re-reading your chats whether on email or whatever mode you have chosen to use is also vital. Again, he goes on to note that referring back to what the other person has said is still important.
