Each workstream project team will include members and expert advisors from across the FutureDotNow community and together they are accountable for progress.
Some projects are already stood up with co-leads in place. Teams convening other projects will mobilise over the course of the year. Funded projects will have oversight from the FutureDotNow team.
If you’d like to be involved in any of the Enabler workstreams, you can register your interest here.
Future-fit skills framework
|
The workstream is exploring how to deliver a future-fit essential digital skills framework for the workforce, with a review process that ensures it keeps pace with advancing tech. It will focus on framework ownership and validation (incl. sector overlays) as well as mapping the framework into the wider skills ecosystem and embedding essential AI tasks. |
|
|
Economic impact
|
This workstream is growing the evidence base for the economic impact of the workforce essential digital skills gap, ensuring digital upskilling is appropriately prioritised. In partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, we have commissioned Cebr to carry out an economic impact assessment of the workforce digital skills gap on individuals, employers and UK plc. |
   |
Social value
|
This workstream will explore how to establish improved essential workforce digital skills as a method of delivering social impact, thereby motivating businesses to invest in skills development as part of ESG goals. In partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, we have commissioned Sonnet to explore how to quantify the social value of essential digital skills in working-age adults. A second team will also work to develop guidance for both commissioners and suppliers on how essential digital skills for work relates to the Social Value Act. |
 |
Training content
|
This workstream is focused on making it easier for employers to find and use existing essential digital skills training resources and guidance, thereby helping organisations train their workforces. A team led by Barclays and Nationwide is exploring how training providers can embed the Essential Digital Skills Framework into their provision. A second group will explore the role of digital badging for training providers, organisations and individuals. |
  |
Motives and confidence
|
This workstream is undertaking qualitative research on the cultural and motivational factors that drive individuals to improve their workplace digital skills. In partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, we have commissioned the Behavioural Insights Team to explore how to motivate adults to build essential digital skills, helping employers improve the effectiveness of upskilling programmes. |
 |
Measuring impact
This new workstream for 2025 will explore how to measure and communicate the collective impact of helping adults build their workplace essential digital skills.
We expect this team to be stood up during the second sprint of the 2025 delivery plan (May-June).
Needs of Small and Medium Enterprises
|
This workstream is exploring the needs and motivating factors specific to the SME community. By building an understanding of what interventions do and don’t work for SMEs, we can ensure there are both opportunities and resources that allow small businesses to improve and benefit from essential digital skills for work. |
 |