The move to an economy based on information and services, demographic
changes (such as an aging population and growing ethnic diversity), and an
increasing reliance on technology in the workplace may lead to renewed skills
development in the workforce.
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But numerous studies point out that the US population does not have the
skills necessary to succeed in the digital economy. From lagging scores on
standardised testing to a growing chasm in access to and comfort with
technology, skills development may become a primary concern as employers face
increased global competition for goods, services, and labour.
The School-to-Work Program Survey, conducted by the Society for Human
Resource Management, asked respondents whether they thought most high school
graduates were qualified to enter the workforce. The majority of HR
professionals did not think so.
