3 Ways Technical Certifications Drive Business Outcomes
The skills gap in technology is a pressing issue for many organizations. A report from Cisco reveals that 68% of technology managers consider the job market for certified professionals highly competitive, and 65% believe there’s a shortage of qualified workers. To address these challenges, companies are increasingly investing in certification programs to upskill their workforce.
Technical certifications not only enhance employee capabilities but also produce measurable benefits for businesses. Here are three key ways certifications contribute to business success:
1. Increase Productivity
Certified employees are significantly more productive than their non-certified peers. Cisco research shows that certified workers perform advanced tasks 37% more effectively. Publicis Sapient, a digital transformation consulting firm, has witnessed similar outcomes. By focusing on certifications in areas like AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, and big data, the company has equipped its workforce with cutting-edge expertise.
This investment has paid off:
- 49% of employees reported increased productivity after training.
- A 20% rise in certifications enabled faster project completion.
2. Improve Accuracy and Quality
Higher speed alone is insufficient without maintaining accuracy and quality. Certified employees consistently demonstrate superior performance in these areas.
Key statistics include:
- Certified workers make 29% fewer errors, according to Cisco.
- 66% of managers believe certifications enhance service quality for IT end-users and customers.
- 44% of managers reported certifications lead to higher-quality work and more effective solutions, according to the IT Certification Council.
3. Lower Project Costs
Although certifications require an initial investment, they ultimately reduce costs by improving efficiency. Cisco found certified employees generate 29% lower total costs compared to non-certified peers.
Other cost-saving benefits include:
- 36% of managers said troubleshooting time is reduced.
- 33% noted faster project completion.
- 29% reported quicker deployment of products and services.
Certifications as a Catalyst for Business Growth
Effective certification programs not only enhance technical skills but also engage employees in their own development. Ian Stevens, Head of Capability Development at Publicis Sapient, shared the positive impact of certification initiatives:
- Employees appreciate platforms like Udemy Business for their comprehensive content and expert instructors.
- Certifications have driven significant improvements in IT and cloud capabilities, directly influencing business performance.
These efforts contributed to Publicis Sapient achieving 20% revenue growth in 2021, adding $280 million to the company’s bottom line.
Investing in certifications doesn’t just upskill employees—it drives measurable outcomes that benefit the entire organization.