Future-fit Work Skills Framework
The Essential Digital Skills Framework provides the foundation for building a digitally confident workforce. Technology continues to evolve and AI is becoming part of everyday work for many. The framework must also evolve, to remain relevant, practical and aligned to the skills people need in the workplace.
The Future-Fit Framework workstream brings together employers and industry experts to advocate for the framework and provide government with insight, evidence and practical recommendations.
Our aim is to help ensure the work-focused elements of the framework keep pace with technological change and strengthen alignment with the wider skills system. We support the framework’s role as a trusted, future-ready benchmark for workforce digital and AI capability across the UK.
2026 priorities
We are focused on helping government to strengthen and future‑proof the Essential Digital Skills Framework and position it to work effectively for employers, policymakers and training providers. Our goals include:
- Securing long-term stewardship and evolution
Support clear ownership of the framework and establish an appropriate review process so it keeps pace with technological change, including rapid developments in AI. - Aligning the wider ecosystem
Position the framework clearly within the broader landscape of standards, qualifications and curriculum, working with partners across government and industry to drive consistency and reduce fragmentation. - Driving adoption and practical use
Advocate for the framework to be recognised as the national baseline for workforce digital skills, while making it more accessible, actionable and relevant to different business audiences.
Progress so far
Government ownership of the framework
An AI-embedded framework
In ‘Embedding AI into the Essential Digital Skills Framework’, we offer evidence-based recommendations and a clear path for updating the Essential Digital Skills Framework to meet the demands of today’s rapidly evolving world of work.
The report sets out the changes required to the Essential Digital Skills Framework to address the evolving nature of workplace digital skills in the age of AI.
How we're delivering the workstream
Our action plan will set out how we will support the continued evolution and adoption of the framework in real-world settings. This includes working alongside government as stewardship develops, refining the language to ensure accessibility, and actively engaging across the skills ecosystem to build alignment.
We will also test and scale practical routes to adoption, including through training providers and apprenticeships.
Get involved
Our Future- fit Framework delivery team is co-led by Dr Matt Forshaw from the Alan Turing Institute and Kerry Harrison from the Lancashire Skills Employment Hub, and supported by representatives from organisations including Amey, City and Guilds, the Department for Education and Swansea University. If you’d like to get involved, reach out to Matt or Kerry to find out more.
