Digital skills: The strategic driver of the organizational future

Abstract

In a business context characterized by accelerated digital transformation, digital skills are consolidated as a strategic pillar for organizational strengthening. The main objective of this study was to analyze the level of digital skills in 44 small and medium-sized enterprises in the municipality of Becerril, Cesar, Colombia, using a quantitative approach, a non-experimental design, and a cross-sectional analysis. A population census was conducted using a structured survey with a Likert-type scale. The instrument was validated by expert judgment and pilot-tested, obtaining a reliability of 0.84 according to Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, ensuring high internal consistency. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed a moderate overall level, with significant weaknesses in digital literacy, efficient use of tools, and adaptation to technological change, associated with a low investment in training. It is concluded that, to face the challenges of the digital age, it is necessary to implement comprehensive training strategies aligned with organizational needs that integrate technical skills, critical thinking, and a culture of innovation. Only through this approach will it be possible to enhance human capital, optimize processes, and improve the productivity and competitiveness of small and medium-sized businesses in increasingly demanding and changing environments.