To turn UK #productivity on its head we need Britain’s businesses to invest in the skills of their workforce

Sean Farrington, SVP EMEIA at Pluralsight, has issued a comment following yesterday’s report from the Office of National Statistics reflecting a flat UK economic performance in the three months to October.

He calls for a greater focus on productivity and developing a skilled workforce in order for the UK to remain competitive on the global stage.

Sean said:

“The latest figures from the ONS show a worrying downward trend – which no doubt is a reflection of the current political and economic uncertainty we face. However, it is too risky to simply wait to ride out the storm.  

“We all know the skills gap exists and we have a falling supply of talent, so without action this issue will only fester. To truly turn the UK’s productivity trend on its head, we need Britain’s businesses to invest in their workforce, ensuring employees have the skills they need to progress in today’s technology-driven world. 

“British business has a proud heritage of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and fast-growth, but we need to identify and address where the productivity problems lie or we risk lagging behind Europe’s elite. 

“For instance, businesses which have access to technology skills platforms can help leaders benchmark the skills of their teams, align learning opportunities for development, and execute on strategies faster and more efficiently. Available immediately, they can equip teams with the skills to take the business forward and ultimately pull the UK out of its productivity slump so it can continue to compete on the global economic stage.”

Documents

Gross domestic product (GDP) measures the value of goods and services produced in the UK. It estimates the size of and growth in the economy.

GDP monthly estimate, UK: October 2019

Details

Official statistics are produced impartially and free from political influence.