Case study summary: Read more about how PETA and Draper Tools partnered together to strengthen digital skills across the workforce. Through targeted assessment and focused Microsoft 365 training, employees gained practical knowledge and greater confidence in their everyday tools.
Background:
With the growing reliance on digital tools in everyday business operations, it became evident that many employees had never received formal training on the applications they use most frequently, such as Excel, Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. To address this, we developed the Digital Skills Analysis, a non-judgemental assessment designed to identify individual training needs. This approach ensures employees feel supported rather than evaluated, enabling them to build confidence and competence in essential software.
How did the partnership begin?
The collaboration began when Draper Tools approached us regarding management development. During our discussions, we identified that enhancing digital skills was a more immediate priority for the business, and we tailored our support accordingly.
What was the main reason for creating this training programme?
With the growing reliance on digital tools in everyday business operations, it became clear that many employees had never received formal training on the applications they use most frequently, such as Excel, Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. To address this, we developed the Digital Skills Analysis, a non-judgemental assessment designed to identify individual training needs. This approach ensures employees feel supported rather than evaluated, enabling them to build confidence and competence in essential software.
Who was it designed for?
The programme was designed to be inclusive and relevant for all roles within the organisation. The assessment first determines whether an employee actively uses a particular application. If they select Yes, they receive three progressively challenging questions at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Employees then rate their ability to complete each task on a scale of 1 to 10, offering insight into their perceived skill level and areas for development.
What skills or topics were covered?
The training focused on key Microsoft 365 applications, specifically Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Based on assessment results, employees were assigned tailored sessions, with some attending all topics and others focusing on one or two.
The sessions included:
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Excel: Introduction and Intermediate
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Outlook: New Outlook features
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Teams: Beginner-level functionality
How long did the training last?
To accommodate all staff, the training was delivered over roughly one month, with sessions held twice a week. Each session lasted between 90 and 120 minutes, depending on the client’s preference. The programme is flexible and can be adapted to shorter or longer timelines to suit organisational needs.
Where did it take place?
Training was delivered both on-site at the client’s premises and virtually via Microsoft Teams. This hybrid approach ensured accessibility for all employees, whether office based or remote, and allowed the sessions to fit smoothly into existing work schedules.
What problems or challenges was the programme meant to solve?
The main challenge was that staff had never received formal training and were largely self-taught. This led to uncertainty about whether their methods were efficient or correct. The programme provided structured, expert-led training to standardise best practices and increase confidence across the workforce.
Want to learn more about our Digital Skills courses here at PETA? Read more and book here